When we have a cold or a sore throat, the first thing that comes to mind for most of us is applying a balm. Applying a balm like Vicks to our chest, neck, and forehead feels so good, doesn't it? The smell alone makes our noses run very clear. But do we really use it? Do we really know what side effects it can cause? Today, let's talk about this indispensable medicine in our homes.
What actually happens with this balm?
These types of ointments mainly contain three ingredients: Camphor, Eucalyptus Oil, and Menthol. These are what give us that special smell and feeling.
Simply put, when you apply it to your skin, your skin starts to feel warm or cool. This sensation temporarily blocks the pain signals from your muscles or joints to your brain. It's like when a small child falls down and cries, we distract them and soothe them. This is why when we smell this scent when our nose is blocked during a cold, we feel like we can breathe easier.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using it
Although this may seem like a common remedy, some people need to be a little careful. Before you use this ointment, be sure to tell your doctor about these conditions.
| Do you have these conditions? | Why is it important to tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| If large areas of skin are burned or injured | Broken skin can easily absorb medication into the body, increasing the risk of side effects. |
| Lung diseases (e.g. asthma, COPD) | The strong odor of this ointment may increase respiratory distress in some people. |
| If you are a smoker | It is important for the doctor to be aware of certain risk factors. |
| Allergy to camphor, menthol, eucalyptus or other medicines/foods | There is a possibility of a severe allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | This should definitely be mentioned to the doctor to consider the possible effects on the baby in the womb. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Since the ingredients of the medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk, it is very important to seek medical advice. |
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this, you need to use it properly.
- Most importantly: This is for skin use only! Do not put it in your mouth or swallow it for any reason. This can be very dangerous.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine. If you are applying the medicine to your hands, wash them only before applying.
- Do not let it get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with clean water for several minutes without closing your eyes.
- When applying, apply it only in the relevant area , not in a thick layer .
- Another reminder: Never apply this to injured, cut, or burned skin.
- When using in children: Although this can be used in some cases in children over 2 years of age, be sure to talk to your doctor about it. Especially in children under 2 years of age, it can cause breathing difficulties due to irritation of the nose or face.
If someone accidentally swallows this, or if they feel unwell after using too much, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or take them to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using and side effects
It is good to be aware of some things when using this. If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if they worsen, be sure to see a doctor. Do not continue using this product without medical advice.
Side effects don't happen to everyone, but sometimes things like this can happen.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing. | Stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor or go to the nearest hospital. |
| Usually not serious, but what to tell the doctor if it persists | |
| Minor skin irritation, redness, or dryness. | This usually goes away after a while, but if it persists or is severe, tell your doctor. |
How do I safely store and dispose of this medicine?
- Storage: Keep away from children and pets. This is very important. It is best to store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Check the expiration date and do not use any medicine that has passed the expiration date.
- Disposal: The best way to dispose of expired or unwanted medication is to hand it over to a program. However, since that is not very practical in our country, here is what you can do:
1. Remove any remaining medicine from the container.
2. Mix it well with used tea leaves, coffee grounds, some soil, or something like cat litter. This will make it so ugly that it will be impossible for anyone else, especially a child, to use it.
3. Place this mixture in a sealable plastic bag or old container and throw it in the trash.
Never flush medications down the toilet. Doing so can cause the medication to enter the water system and harm the environment.
Take-Home Message
- These types of ointments are for topical application only. Never swallow or put in mouth.
- Do not apply to cut, burned, injured, or damaged skin.
- Always seek medical advice before using on children under 2 years of age.
- If you experience any allergic symptoms such as skin rash or swelling, stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor.
- If this is swallowed by mistake or by someone, call the National Poisons Information Centre immediately or go to a hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- Always store safely out of the reach of small children and pets.
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