Pathophysiology;

salicylates cause the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation leading to decreased adenosine triphosphate production, increased oxygen consumption and increased carbon dioxide and heat production

PC

• hyperventilation (centrally stimulates respiration)
• tinnitus
• lethargy
• sweating, pyrexia*
• nausea/vomiting
• seizures
• coma

Investigations

• BMs - hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia
• VBGs
  • Initial respiratory alkalosis (caused by activation of respiratory centres in the brain)
  • Later metabolic acidosis (causes by wasting of bicarbonate ions due to the ingested acid load) - this is often mixed with the respiratory alkalosis
• U and Es - for complications

Imaging:

• CXR
• CT head

Treatment