Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Table salt is widely available and, in some cases, inappropriately used as an emetic in poisoning incidents, both in clinical and domestic settings. However, saltwater-induced emesis can lead to severe hypernatremia, which, although rare, carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Early recognition, prompt diagnosis, and urgent management are essential to prevent irreversible neurological injury or death. We report a case of severe hypernatremia (serum sodium 187 mmol/L) following saltwater-induced emesis in a young woman with suspected neem powder poisoning, in whom timely intervention led to complete recovery. Clinical features, management strategies, and the urgent need to eliminate this dangerous practice are discussed.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.89685
Authors: Krishnakar Reddy Alla, rusheeka pulluri
Institution: SVS Medical College
Language: English
Subfield: Emergency Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413237427