An 8-year-old boy in Hsinchu mistakenly drank the magic water as a drink! Pediatrician reminds: Keep 3 things in mind if you accidentally eat strong alkali

An 8-year-old boy in Hsinchu mistakenly drank the "magic water" used in a scientific experiment at home a few days ago. His parents found out and sent him to the emergency room of Hsinchu Hospital, National Taiwan University Branch, Hsinchu. It was confirmed that the solution contained sodium hydroxide, commonly known as "caustic soda", which is a strongly alkaline substance and may cause corrosive burns to the esophagus and stomach. The pediatrician evaluated and arranged for a gastroscopy. Fortunately, no corrosive damage was found. The boy was in stable condition after observation and returned home safely.

He Shaoxuan, a pediatrician at Hsinchu Hospital, National Taiwan University Branch in Hsinchu, pointed out that the "magic water" the boy accidentally drank was a common "blue bottle experiment" in science courses. The experimental solution is made of methylene blue, glucose and sodium hydroxide. When the bottle is shaken, as oxygen is dissolved, the liquid will turn from colorless to blue, and then gradually return to colorless after standing. It can repeatedly show the color-changing effect, which can easily arouse children's curiosity. However, because it contains strong alkaline ingredients, it may cause serious harm if swallowed by mistake.

He Shaoshan explained that sodium hydroxide is highly corrosive and may cause damage to the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, esophagus and stomach if ingested. After strong alkali contacts human tissue, it may continue to erode deep into the body, and in severe cases may even cause esophageal perforation, or form esophageal stenosis after the wound heals, leading to long-term swallowing difficulties. It is worth noting that even if there are no obvious burns in the child's mouth, it does not mean that the esophagus or stomach is not damaged, and the extent of the damage cannot be judged based on the appearance or early symptoms alone.

He Shaoshan also reminded parents to remember the "3 don'ts": Do not induce vomiting, because vomiting will cause corrosive substances to pass through the esophagus again, which may cause secondary damage. Do not drink vinegar or acidic drinks to neutralize it, because the acid-base neutralization reaction may generate heat, which will in turn aggravate tissue burns. Do not force-feed large amounts of water to avoid improper handling that may increase the risk. Stop eating and drinking first and seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.

He Shaoshan emphasized that experimental solutions containing chemical agents should not be stored in food containers such as beverage bottles and water cups. They should be properly stored immediately after the operation is completed to prevent children from accidentally drinking out of curiosity or thirst. Products such as common household cleaners and water pipe unblockers may also contain strong acid or alkali ingredients. They should be kept in their original packaging and placed out of reach of children.