What signs are common of poisoning by ingestion?

Poisoning by ingestion often leads to specific symptoms that reflect the body’s response to the toxic substances consumed. One common sign associated with this type of poisoning is the swelling of mucosal membranes. This occurs as the body reacts to the irritants or toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and swelling in the mucosal lining of the mouth, throat, and potentially the stomach as well.

When substances are ingested, they can irritate tissues, causing swelling, redness, and pain. For instance, acids or alkaline substances can cause significant damage and inflammation, leading to noticeable swelling of these membranes. This symptom is a direct consequence of the ingestion route, reflecting localized tissue damage or irritation.

In contrast, other options relate to different exposure routes or symptoms that are less characteristic of ingestion. For example, absorption through the skin is more applicable to dermal exposure to toxins rather than ingestion. Injection into veins refers to a parenteral route that bypasses the gastrointestinal system, making it irrelevant to ingestion cases. Fever and chills are general systemic responses that can happen due to various illnesses but are not specific indicators of ingestion poisoning. Thus, swelling of mucosal membranes stands out as a primary indicator for this type of poisoning.