Question 1: All are true about atropine poisoning, except
- A. Decreased temperature (Correct Answer)
- B. Dysarthria
- C. Dysphagia
- D. Dilated pupils
Explanation: ***Decreased temperature***
- Atropine is an **anticholinergic** agent that blocks muscarinic receptors, leading to decreased sweating and **hyperthermia** (increased temperature) in poisoning.
- The phrase **"hot as a hare"** is a classic mnemonic for atropine poisoning, referring to this elevated body temperature.
*Dysarthria*
- **Dysarthria** (slurred or difficult speech) can be a symptom of atropine poisoning due to the **CNS effects** of anticholinergic toxicity.
- Atropine crosses the blood-brain barrier and can cause a range of neurological symptoms including agitation, delirium, and impaired speech.
*Dysphagia*
- **Dysphagia** (difficulty swallowing) is a common symptom in atropine poisoning, related to the **drying of oral and pharyngeal secretions** due to anticholinergic effects.
- The mouth becomes very dry, making it difficult to form a food bolus and swallow effectively.
*Dilated pupils*
- **Dilated pupils (mydriasis)** unresponsive to light are a hallmark sign of atropine poisoning, as atropine blocks parasympathetic innervation to the iris sphincter muscle.
- This symptom is often described in the mnemonic as **"blind as a bat"** due to the associated blurred vision and photophobia.