Question
Would the ingestion of 95% ethanol by a newborn baby affect its brain and sense of smell in the future? The baby is two months old and accidentally ingested a large amount of 95% ethanol, entering the body through the mouth and nose.
Answer
According to the treatment process, because it was discovered in a timely manner and the treatment measures were appropriate, no sequelae should remain. The baby ingested 95% ethanol, but for a short period of time, and the treatment was timely. Moreover, the blood-brain barrier in humans prevents most substances from entering the brain, so it should not affect intelligence. If a large amount of ethanol enters through the nose, it may damage the nasal mucosa. If the amount is significant, it could harm the olfactory cells in the nose, affecting the sense of smell. Therefore, close observation of the child’s sense of smell is necessary. If there is actual damage to the sense of smell, it is recommended to seek treatment from an otolaryngology department.