Trendy health products may seem harmless but can lead to serious ER visits
Dr. Nima Majlesi, an emergency room physician, has seen it all. He says people are swallowing all sorts of things, and it’s not just harmless stuff. For instance, during the pandemic, many turned to veterinary drugs like ivermectin, thinking it was a miracle cure for COVID. But the version meant for animals is way stronger and can be dangerous for humans.
Then there’s activated charcoal, which people are using in everything from juices to toothpaste. While it can help in emergencies, it can also mess with how your body absorbs necessary medications. Dr. Majlesi has seen patients come in because their blood pressure meds weren’t working, all because of that charcoal.
Supplements might seem safe, but they can be a gamble. Some contain harmful metals, and others can cause serious side effects. Dr. Majlesi warns that just because something is on the shelf doesn’t mean it’s safe.
And it’s not just the usual suspects that land people in the ER. Some have swallowed bizarre items like nails and screws, often due to psychological issues. Kids, on the other hand, tend to accidentally ingest toys or batteries.
So, if you’re thinking about trying a new health trend, it’s best to chat with your doctor first. Better safe than sorry!
