Inhaling Hydrogen Peroxide: The Health Trend That Could Ruin Your Lungs
As seen on social media platforms such as
Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok, the latest health trend is inhaling
hydrogen peroxide as a means of protection against Covid-19. Supposedly,
this can help disinfect your breathing airways. Sounds logical, doesn't
it? Except it is not! Beware of this trend as it has absolutely no root
in any scientific study whatsoever. Not only is this not effective, but
it is also potentially harmful. Read on to equip yourself with the
facts.
What Will Happen if I Inhale Hydrogen Peroxide?
Drinking hydrogen peroxide as a
preventative measure against Covid-19 may cause some diarrhea from
deactivating bacteria in your gut. The risk is not lethal, it won't burn
you like drain cleaner or bleach would.
The risks and severity of possible internal injury depend on the
percentage of hydrogen peroxide: greater than 10% poses a risk of
internal injury.
The fumes can harm alveoli (where the lungs
and the blood exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide). Additional damage
may be bubbling in internal tissues due to a fizzing reaction with
bacteria and dead skin.
Drinking hydrogen peroxide as a DIY treatment method for Covid-19 poses
even greater risks as it can worsen inflammation.
Instead of exposing yourself to false information and fear-mongering on
social media, turn to legitimate sources of information. These are the
FDA, CDC, or the Department of Health in your state.
How Can I Utilize the Substance Safely?
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective cleaner
and stain remover, especially when it comes to dried blood stains on
clothes. Pour some on the stain. If it fizzles, it's working! In
medicine, you may be requested to swish and spit hydrogen peroxide
before dental treatments.
Luckily, the trend is still new. There hasn't yet been a case of
hydrogen peroxide-related injuries in US hospitals. Help us nip the
trend in the bud and share this article with your close ones.