When it comes to using household products, most of us are usually familiar with the common uses. For example, we use dish soap for washing dishes, laundry detergent for cleaning clothes and bleach for cleaning surfaces in our homes. However, some people have been known to explore unconventional ways of using everyday products which can lead to unforeseen consequences.
One such household item is 'Vicks Vaporub,' a popular product that has long been used as a remedy for colds and coughs. It's application is simple; open the container/lid and apply directly on your chest or nostrils/ nose and inhale its aromatic relief against nasal discomfort which makes you breathe better . But what happens if you ingest or eat the substance? In this article, we'll take a closer look at unexpected consequences that may occur when one eats Vicks.
Is Eating or Ingesting Vicks Harmful?
It's important first to note that Vicks vapor rub was not designed nor approved by the FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) for ingestion purposes but rather inhalation therapy only as indicated on each pack . If one accidentally consumes small amounts of Vick's vapour rub during its intended use (topical application), there shouldn't be any significant health problems experienced- except perhaps an unpleasant soapy taste in their mouth and/or bad breath fo several hours afterwards!
However, direct ingestion into the stomach could cause various severe reactions depending upon several factors like dosage level consumed,age , physical condition, among others. The ingredients used within vicks have all kinds of stern warnings indicating what will happen should they be eaten or exposed beyond their recommended usage; these include menthol oila critical compound within vick's that assists in soothing respiratory tracts by producing cool sensations through evaporation processes.
Symptoms Of Eating Or Ingesting Vicks
The immediate consequences of eating vicks largely depend on the dosage taken and individual factors. However, a preliminary look at some reactions people have experienced after ingesting Vicks include;
Stomach Problems
Ingesting any amount of vicks could create severe irritation to one's digestive system leading to vomiting, nausea diarrhea, stomach pains which can be very uncomfortable among other symptoms.
Nervous System Effects
Vick contains camphor oil; when consumed in excessive levels it can cause nervous system disturbances ranging from hallucinations,, tremors dizziness, convulsions and seizures
Breathing difficulties /Airway Inflammation:
Camphor has been identified as a potent irritant for respiratory tracts which lead to bronchospasm/throat inflammation reducing airflow into/out of the lungs. A person who consumes Vicks may develop serious breathing problems like wheezing or shortness of breath due to airway/nose/ throat blockages.
How Much Of Vicks Can Be Harmful?
It is not advisable nor recommended for anyone to eat/inhale large amounts aka overdosing/double-doses/megadoses of cough suppressants without having their doctors consent since it's potentially detrimental effects they pose on various organs/systems within our bodies though are used medicinally.
Apart from seeking medical attention afterwards- treatment usually involving medication that targets symptomatic relief but also involves removing any remaining pills/solids/presence through induced vomiting-gastric lavage/stomach pumping followed by proper nutritive support .
If you suspect anyone has eaten vick., Call their emergency nurse line immediately advising them on possible outcomes so they give appropriate aid before reaching an ER doctor/hospital.
Conclusion: Should You Eat Vicks?
While there are many ways one could use Vicks products including applying directly onto affected areas during cold/cough seasonal periods , consuming it is strongly discouraged - hence its clear indication on the label. Excessive amounts of camphor within a person's body could cause severe reactions leading to temporary/permanent damage if left unchecked subsequent consumption thereof can bring long-term harm.
It's always good practice to investigate thoroughly what any household products contain and/or used for before applying it in unconventional ways because unexpected consequences like this article has elucidated are no laughing matter!