What Happens If You Swallow A Nicotine Pouch?

Introduction

Nicotine pouches are small, teabag-like pouches filled with nicotine and flavoring. They are placed between the cheek and gum, where the nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream. While nicotine pouches are generally safe when used as directed, swallowing one can have serious consequences.

What Happens If You Swallow A Nicotine Pouch?

If you swallow a nicotine pouch, the nicotine will be absorbed into your bloodstream and can cause a range of symptoms, including:

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Irregular heartbeat

Seizures

Coma

In severe cases, swallowing a nicotine pouch can be fatal.

Symptoms of Nicotine Poisoning

The symptoms of nicotine poisoning can vary depending on the amount of nicotine swallowed. Mild symptoms may include:

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Irregular heartbeat

More severe symptoms may include:

Seizures

Coma

Death

Treatment for Nicotine Poisoning

If you or someone you know has swallowed a nicotine pouch, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for nicotine poisoning may include:

Activated charcoal to absorb the nicotine

Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration

Medications to control seizures

Mechanical ventilation to support breathing

Stories

Story 1

In 2021, a 12-year-old boy swallowed a nicotine pouch that he found on the ground. Within hours, he began experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. He was taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with nicotine poisoning. He was treated with activated charcoal and intravenous fluids and made a full recovery.

Story 2

In 2022, a 16-year-old girl swallowed a nicotine pouch that she had been using to quit smoking. Within minutes, she began experiencing seizures. She was taken to the hospital, where she was placed on mechanical ventilation. She remained in a coma for several days before finally regaining consciousness. She made a full recovery, but she has permanent brain damage.

Story 3

In 2023, a 22-year-old man swallowed a nicotine pouch that he had been using to help him concentrate while studying. Within minutes, he began experiencing irregular heartbeat and difficulty breathing. He was taken to the hospital, where he was given medications to control his heart rate and breathing. He was released from the hospital the next day, but he continues to experience occasional heart palpitations.

Benefits of Avoiding Swallowing Nicotine Pouches

There are many benefits to avoiding swallowing nicotine pouches, including:

Preventing nicotine poisoning

Reducing the risk of seizures

Preventing brain damage

Protecting your heart health

How to Avoid Swallowing Nicotine Pouches

There are a few simple things you can do to avoid swallowing nicotine pouches, including:

Do not put nicotine pouches in your mouth if you are not planning to use them.

If you are using a nicotine pouch, be sure to spit it out after you are finished.

Keep nicotine pouches out of reach of children and pets.

Dispose of used nicotine pouches properly.

Conclusion

Swallowing a nicotine pouch can have serious consequences. It is important to be aware of the risks of swallowing nicotine pouches and to take steps to avoid doing so.

What Happens If You Swallow A Nicotine Pouch?