Accidental Ingestion of Cooling Spray: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Accidental Ingestion of Cooling Spray: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hello： The main ingredients of cooling sprays are water, alcohol, and plant-based essential oils (such as menthol). <br>Ingesting these substances should not cause symptoms like fever, muscle pain, or dizziness. <br>Your discomfort may not be related to the accidental ingestion o

Accidental ingestion of cooling spray?

I woke up at 7:30 AM with a bit of a scratchy throat.
I usually spray some propolis, but instead, I grabbed the Thai Snake Brand cooling spray and used it four times.
Afterward, I rinsed my mouth to remove any residue and drank a large amount of water, followed by about 300 cc of milk.
I still feel a bit unwell, experiencing mild fever, muscle aches, and dizziness, but everything else seems normal.
Should I seek medical attention for an examination?

A-Bang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/07

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The main ingredients of cooling sprays are water, alcohol, and plant-based essential oils (such as menthol).
Ingesting these substances should not cause symptoms like fever, muscle pain, or dizziness.
Your discomfort may not be related to the accidental ingestion of the cooling spray.
It is advisable to first conduct a rapid test for COVID-19.
Additionally, consider the possibility of influenza, but this would require medical evaluation.
Since you are currently experiencing discomfort, it is still recommended to seek medical treatment.

Reply Date: 2023/02/07

More Info

Accidental ingestion of a cooling spray, especially one that is not intended for oral use, can lead to a range of symptoms and potential complications. In your case, you mentioned that you accidentally sprayed a cooling spray in your mouth, which can contain ingredients that may irritate the mucous membranes or even be toxic if ingested in significant amounts. Given your symptoms of mild fever, muscle aches, and dizziness, it is essential to assess the situation carefully.

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand the ingredients in the cooling spray you ingested. Many cooling sprays contain menthol or other active ingredients that can cause irritation or adverse reactions when ingested. While you took immediate steps to mitigate the situation by rinsing your mouth and drinking water and milk, these actions may not completely neutralize the effects of the spray, especially if it contains harmful substances.

The symptoms you are experiencing—mild fever, muscle aches, and dizziness—could be indicative of a systemic reaction to the ingredients in the spray. While these symptoms may not seem severe, they warrant attention, especially considering the potential for delayed reactions or complications. It is also important to note that some individuals may have allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain chemicals, which could exacerbate symptoms over time.

In general, if you experience any of the following after accidental ingestion of a non-food product, it is advisable to seek medical attention:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. This includes ongoing discomfort, fever, or any new symptoms that arise.

2. Severe Reactions: If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe abdominal pain, you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

3. Uncertainty About the Product: If you are unsure about the ingredients of the cooling spray or if it is potentially toxic, it is better to err on the side of caution and consult a medical professional.

4. Underlying Health Conditions: If you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications that could interact with the ingredients in the spray, it is wise to seek medical advice.

Given your current symptoms and the nature of the incident, I strongly recommend that you seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, possibly including blood tests or other diagnostics, to assess your condition and determine if any specific treatment is necessary. They can also provide guidance on managing your symptoms and monitoring for any potential complications.

In summary, while you have taken initial steps to address the situation, the presence of ongoing symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and dizziness suggests that a medical evaluation is warranted. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further assessment and peace of mind. Your health and safety should always be the top priority.

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