Muscle Sensations After Drinking and Infection Risks from Food Utensils

Q: Muscle Sensations After Drinking and Infection Risks from Food Utensils

Hello： 1. The discomfort in your calf is likely related to alcohol consumption. It is recommended to rest and observe your condition, as well as to increase your fluid intake. If the discomfort persists without improvement, seek medical attention. 2. If you ar

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Hello, doctor.
I have two questions to ask.
Today, I went out for dinner with my supervisor from work and drank three bottles of beer, approximately 2000ml.
After returning home, I felt a strange sensation in my calves, similar to the feeling after exercising.
It's not numbness, but there's a slight soreness and a sense of relaxation.
Although it's not to the point of weakness where I can't walk, I would like to know if this is related to drinking alcohol.
Will resting help me recover, or should I see a doctor?
Additionally, I used a bamboo skewer while eating, and although there was no bleeding, could I potentially contract any diseases if the skewer was not clean? Or is it generally okay since there was no bleeding? Thank you.

Ch, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/27

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: 1.
The discomfort in your calf is likely related to alcohol consumption.
It is recommended to rest and observe your condition, as well as to increase your fluid intake.
If the discomfort persists without improvement, seek medical attention.
2.
If you are punctured by a dirty bamboo skewer, you may be concerned about the risk of tetanus infection and cellulitis caused by bacteria.
However, if the wound is not bleeding, it indicates that the wound is not deep, and the risk of infection is generally low.
If you have concerns, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a tetanus vaccination and to use antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics for treatment.

Reply Date: 2023/06/27

More Info

When it comes to the sensations you are experiencing in your calves after consuming a significant amount of alcohol, it is important to understand the physiological effects of alcohol on the body. Drinking alcohol, especially in larger quantities like the 2000ml of beer you mentioned, can lead to various sensations in the muscles. The "weird feeling" you describe, characterized by mild soreness and relaxation, may be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, which can alter your perception of muscle sensations. It can also lead to dehydration, which is common after consuming alcohol. Dehydration can cause muscle cramps or discomfort, as muscles require adequate hydration to function properly. Additionally, alcohol can affect electrolyte balance, which is crucial for muscle contraction and relaxation. If you are feeling relaxed but slightly sore, it could be a combination of muscle fatigue from the alcohol's effects and possibly dehydration.

Resting and hydrating adequately can help alleviate these sensations. Make sure to drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body, as this can help restore electrolyte balance and reduce any discomfort. If the sensations persist or worsen, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

Regarding your second question about the use of a bamboo skewer and the risk of infection, it is essential to consider the cleanliness of the utensil. While you mentioned that there was no bleeding from your finger, there is still a potential risk of infection if the skewer was contaminated with harmful bacteria or pathogens. Infections can occur even without visible wounds if bacteria enter through tiny breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.

If the skewer was not clean, there is a slight risk of transmitting infections such as hepatitis or other bloodborne pathogens, especially if the skewer was used in food preparation or handling raw meat. However, the risk is significantly lower if there was no direct contact with contaminated surfaces or fluids. In general, maintaining proper hygiene and ensuring that utensils are clean before use can minimize the risk of infection.

In summary, the sensations in your calves after drinking alcohol are likely related to the effects of alcohol on your body, including dehydration and muscle relaxation. Rest and hydration should help. As for the bamboo skewer, while there is a minimal risk of infection, it is essential to monitor for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or increased pain at the site. If you notice any concerning symptoms, it would be wise to seek medical attention. Always prioritize hygiene when using utensils to prevent any potential health issues.

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