Lily-of-the-valley

Definition

This is poisoning from eating parts of the lily-of-the-valley plant.

Alternative Names

Liljekonvall

Poisonous Ingredient

• Convallarin
• Convallamarin

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found

The fruit, leaves, flowers, and roots of the lily-of-the-valley plant.

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat

• Blurred vision
• Halos around objects (yellow, green, white)
• Excessive urination at night

Skin

• Rash
• Hives

Gastrointestinal

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

Heart and blood

• Irregular or slow heartbeat

Nervous system

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Depression
• Headache
• Fainting
• Lethargy
• Disorientation
• Weakness

Note: Depression, loss of appetite, and halos are usually only seen in chronic overdose cases.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the plant, if known  
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Bring the plant with you to the emergency room, if possible.

See National Poison Control Center.

What to expect at the emergency room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, blood pressure, and heart function.

The patient may receive:

• EKG
• Medicines to treat symptoms
• Medicines to make the person throw up
• Medicine to reverse the effect of the poison
• Activated charcoal
• Laxative
• Blood tests to determine serum magnesium levels and serum potassium levels
• Treatment to correct electrolyte (potassium, magnesium) imbalances

Expectations (prognosis)

If the individual survives the first 24 hours their chances of survival are very good.