A leading medical expert has issued a stark warning to Brits that what they assume is a severe hangover could in fact be a life-threatening case of methanol poisoning.
The Silent Killer in Your Glass
Professor M.D Ismail Cinel, a medical expert from Acibadem, is urging the public to understand the grave danger. He revealed that methanol poisoning is extremely dangerous and in most instances tragically proves fatal.
Shockingly, official UK data suggests that deaths from this type of poisoning might be under-reported across the country, despite the global death toll remaining alarmingly high.
Why Holiday Destinations Pose a Greater Risk
The threat is particularly acute for Brits travelling abroad. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has recently extended its health warnings to eight additional countries due to a noted increase in deaths and serious illnesses from contaminated alcoholic beverages.
These destinations include Mexico, a favourite holiday spot for many UK tourists.
Professor Cinel explained the biological process that makes methanol so deadly. "The body transforms methanol into formaldehyde and formic acid, two highly toxic compounds that can trigger severe metabolic acidosis," he stated.
"These substances harm the optic nerve, potentially leading to blindness, or can damage the brain, kidneys and other organs. Without swift treatment, this can result in a coma, respiratory failure or even death."
Recognising the Warning Signs
One of the most dangerous aspects of methanol poisoning is how its symptoms can be mistaken for a bad hangover. Professor Cinel shed light on the key differences and the critical timeline.
"Initial symptoms may not start until 12-24 hours after your drink has been spiked with methanol, and you could feel perfectly fine up until then," he revealed.
The early warning signs include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
"You may think it's a longer and more severe hangover than normal," the Professor cautioned. "However, when this is alongside abdominal pain and dizziness, it could sadly be methanol poisoning."
As the condition progresses, symptoms can deteriorate rapidly, leading to:
- Blurred or tunnel vision
- Confusion
- Rapid breathing
- Coma or fatality
Professor Cinel emphasised that recognising these warning signs early is absolutely crucial to preventing a potential death.
His advice is clear: "If you suspect that you've consumed a suspicious alcoholic drink, particularly if you're abroad in one of the countries listed on the UK Government website, or your hangover does seem worse and longer than normal, you need to seek medical attention immediately."
He added a vital piece of guidance for anyone unsure: "You may feel silly going to a doctor for a headache after a big night out, but a headache should get better over time rather than worse, and a typical hangover shouldn't bring on additional dizziness or confusion as the day goes on."
