Why do you give egg white or milk to a person the swallowed poison?

Giving egg white or milk to a person who has swallowed poison is not a recommended first-aid treatment and can potentially be harmful. Here's why:

Interaction with Poison: The composition of poison can vary greatly, and there is no universal antidote. Without knowing the specific type of poison ingested, providing egg white or milk may interfere with its absorption or reaction, potentially making the situation worse.

Dilution: Contrary to popular belief, diluting poison by drinking large amounts of water or liquids like egg white or milk is generally not effective. This is because the main goal of poison management is to prevent further absorption, which is best achieved by not introducing more fluids.

Protein Binding: Egg white contains proteins that can bind to certain toxins, preventing their absorption. However, the binding capacity of egg white is limited and may not be sufficient to effectively neutralize all types of poisons.

Curd Formation: Milk contains proteins, including casein, that can form curds when mixed with stomach acids. This curd formation can potentially delay the absorption of poison, but it's not a reliable method of treatment and may not prevent all toxins from being absorbed.

Delaying Professional Medical Care: Relying on home remedies like egg white or milk can lead to a delay in seeking prompt medical attention. In cases of suspected poisoning, it's crucial to contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical assistance for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Instead of attempting these home remedies, it's essential to follow these steps in case of suspected poisoning:

1. Call a Poison Control Center: Immediately dial the poison control center or emergency services. They will provide expert guidance on the appropriate course of action based on the specific poison ingested.

2. Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically instructed by a medical professional, do not induce vomiting. This can potentially worsen the situation by causing further irritation and absorption of poison.

3. Preserve Evidence: If possible, keep a sample of the suspected poison, preferably in its original container, to aid in identification and treatment.

4. Provide Medical History: Inform the medical personnel about the person's medical history, allergies, and current medications.

Remember that home remedies may not be effective and can sometimes be dangerous. In case of suspected poisoning, always seek professional medical advice and treatment promptly.