Man's Common Cold Treatment Takes Deadly Turn, Highlighting Dangers of Improper Medication and Subpar Medical Care
A recent medical incident in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, has raised public concern after a 55-year-old man, surnamed He, went to a small clinic for intravenous treatment due to a common cold, but was later diagnosed with uremia. He, who had a good physical condition despite having diabetes, went to the clinic for treatment after catching a cold. The clinic administered several medications, including levofloxacin, ibuprofen, and acyclovir, which led to an improvement in his cold symptoms. However, he soon discovered that his urine output had decreased significantly, and he experienced swelling in his face and legs, as well as fatigue, nausea, and chest tightness.
16 March 2025
After being rushed to the hospital, He was diagnosed with kidney failure, with his blood creatinine level exceeding the normal limit by 14 times. His condition had developed into uremia, and he was immediately admitted to the hospital for treatment. The doctor explained that the medications he took, including ibuprofen and acyclovir, can cause acute kidney injury, especially when administered at a high speed. The combination of these medications, including levofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with known kidney toxicity, increased the risk of kidney damage. Furthermore, the use of multiple medications with similar effects, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can lead to adverse reactions and exacerbate kidney problems.
Fortunately, after two weeks of treatment, including blood dialysis, He's urine output gradually increased, and his kidney function recovered. He was grateful to the doctor and said, "Thank you for saving me! I will never go to a small clinic again, and I will not only consider the efficacy of the drug but also its side effects." This incident serves as a warning to the public about the potential risks of kidney damage caused by medications and the importance of choosing a reputable medical institution and being cautious when taking medications.
According to Dr. Wang, a nephrologist at the hospital, patients with chronic kidney disease, especially those with existing kidney dysfunction, are more susceptible to kidney damage caused by medications. Elderly patients are also at higher risk due to the natural decline in kidney function with age. To prevent kidney damage caused by medications, patients should follow their doctor's prescription, not adjust the dosage or switch medications without consultation, and avoid using antibiotics, painkillers, or traditional Chinese medicines without a clear medical need. It is essential for patients to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which can cause kidney damage, especially when used in combination or at high doses.
The incident involving He has sparked widespread public concern and introspection, prompting many to advocate for the importance of choosing reputable hospitals for medical care and adhering strictly to prescribed medications to avoid letting minor illnesses escalate into major health crises. It also serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor conditions require careful management and the selection of formal healthcare institutions to ensure personal health and safety. The public is advised to be cautious when taking medications, particularly those with potential kidney toxicity, and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any unusual symptoms, such as decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue.
This incident emphasizes the need for public health education, stressing the dangers of underestimating any illness and the benefits of following established medical protocols. The assertion is clear: while convenience and perceived minor health issues might tempt individuals to opt for quicker, less formal solutions, the potential consequences of such choices can be severe, making it imperative to value rigorous, professional medical care above all else. By highlighting the importance of vigilance and informed decision-making in healthcare, the community aims to prevent similar unfortunate outcomes in the future. Patients should always prioritize their health and safety by seeking medical attention from reputable institutions and following the advice of qualified healthcare professionals.
