Which of the following is NOT a symptom of chronic poisoning?

• A. Headache
• B. Nerve damage
• C. Birth defects
• D. Skin irritations

Answer: (A)

Chronic poisoning comes from repeated or long-term exposure to pesticides, and its signs are lasting or progressive rather than coming on suddenly. While acute exposure often produces immediate symptoms like headaches, chronic effects reflect damage that builds up over time. Nerve damage is a hallmark of chronic exposure because long-term contact can injure the nervous system and lead to persistent problems. Birth defects can result from exposure during pregnancy, showing up as developmental issues in the fetus, another example of long-term harm. Skin irritations, such as dermatitis from prolonged contact, also fit the pattern of chronic effects that persist with ongoing exposure. Headache, on the other hand, is typically an acute sign that occurs soon after exposure and may resolve after exposure ends, so it does not represent a chronic poisoning symptom.