A Whiff And A Sip: Drinking Cologne

Drinking cologne is dangerous and can lead to cologne poisoning, which can be fatal. Cologne is made from alcohol and essential oils, and the alcohol content can be anywhere from 20 to 95%. Ingesting cologne can cause symptoms such as drowsiness, inebriation, low blood sugar, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and even coma. It is especially dangerous for children, who are prone to developing low blood sugar and can ingest cologne by accident due to its attractive smell and packaging. If you or someone you know has ingested cologne, it is important to seek immediate medical attention and call a poison control center or emergency services.

The dangers of drinking cologne

Cologne is a scented liquid made from alcohol and essential oils. While it is designed to be applied to the skin, some people do ingest it, either by accident or on purpose. This can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening.

Poisonous ingredients

The main ingredients in cologne that can be poisonous are ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol). These alcohols are found in various types of cologne and can make up anywhere from 20 to 95% of the product. Other toxic ingredients may also be present, such as toxic alcohols similar to those found in windscreen washer fluid.

Symptoms of poisoning

Symptoms of cologne poisoning can include:

• Decreased level of consciousness, including coma
• Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting (which may be bloody)
• Trouble walking normally
• Low body temperature, low blood sugar, and low blood pressure
• Abnormal urine output
• Seizures
• Swaying from side to side
• Uncoordinated movement

Effects on children

Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of cologne ingestion, as their smaller bodies can be more easily overwhelmed by the high alcohol content. They may experience symptoms such as drowsiness, inebriation, slurred speech, depressed breathing, loss of coordination, and seizures. Low blood sugar is a particular concern, as children's brains need sustained levels of sugar to function normally.

Treatment

If you or someone you know has ingested cologne, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency number or a poison control center. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a medical professional. The affected person may be given fluids, light snacks, and medication to treat symptoms and maintain blood sugar levels. In severe cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be required.

The symptoms of cologne poisoning

While cologne is not meant to be ingested, it can be very harmful if someone swallows it. The harmful ingredients in cologne include ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol). The symptoms of cologne poisoning are similar to those of ingesting a high-proof or heavily concentrated type of liquor.

If you suspect that you or someone you know has ingested cologne, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Here are some symptoms of cologne poisoning to watch out for:

• Decreased level of consciousness, including coma (lack of responsiveness)
• Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting (may be bloody)
• Trouble walking normally
• Low body temperature, low blood sugar, and low blood pressure
• Abnormal urine output (too little or too much)
• Seizures (convulsions)
• Swaying from side to side
• Uncoordinated movement
• Lethargy or lack of energy
• Breath that smells of alcohol

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after ingesting cologne, it is crucial to seek medical help right away. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by poison control or a healthcare provider.

The effects of cologne on children

The attractive smell and ornate bottles of cologne can entice children to ingest it, and they may also mimic a parent's use of the product. If a child consumes more than 30ml of cologne, the effects can be particularly dangerous. The high alcohol content can cause them to become drunk, leading to slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood sugar levels. In some cases, children may even experience a seizure or lose consciousness.

It is crucial to keep cologne and other fragrance products out of the reach of children and never apply them in their presence. If a child does ingest cologne, it is important to seek immediate medical help by calling your local poison control center or emergency services. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. To prevent the child's blood sugar from dropping, give them a light, carb- or sugar-heavy snack while waiting for medical assistance.

Why cologne is attractive to children

Cologne and perfume are attractive to children for several reasons. Firstly, childhood and adolescence are periods of discovery and self-discovery, respectively, where character develops and asserts itself. During these formative years, children and teenagers are highly influenced by their peers and surroundings, and fragrances can become a part of their self-expression. A well-chosen perfume can act as a "second skin", enhancing their self-confidence and natural allure.

Secondly, the sense of smell is strongly linked to memory and emotion. A particular fragrance can evoke positive memories and emotions, making it attractive to children and adults alike. In some cultures, it is common to introduce fragrances to children from a young age, creating a "special part of their upbringing". For example, in France and Italy, it is customary for parents to lightly spray their children's belongings or clothing with cologne or perfume, making it a familiar and comforting scent.

Additionally, the packaging and marketing of fragrances can also play a role in their appeal to children. Attractive packaging and branding that resonates with children's interests or aspirations may pique their curiosity and desire to own and use the product.

It is worth noting that while colognes and perfumes can be alluring to children, they should be used with caution. These products often contain high amounts of alcohol and other potentially toxic ingredients that can be harmful if ingested. Therefore, it is important for parents and caregivers to supervise their use and ensure they are stored safely out of the reach of children.

The history of cologne as a drink

The practice of drinking cologne is a dangerous but historically documented one.

In the 19th century, it was not uncommon for well-to-do women to drink their cologne as an alternative to alcohol. This was often due to a lack of legal or socially acceptable ways to access drinkable alcohol. Deprived of the option to frequent gentlemen's clubs, these women relied on what was available to them. As one source from the time describes:

> 'If you are observant, you will see any lady take her little “nip” any afternoon at a matinee, or concert, or lecture. She opens her reticule, or, if too up-to-date for a bag, you will notice her frequent recurrence to the great pocket of her sealskin. From this, she takes what you suppose to be a sugar plum or a cough lozenge. If you look closely, you will find that it is a square of white sugar ... My lady is about to take a perfume “ball” right here in the presence of the audience and amid the glare of the incandescent lights. Another dive into the pocket and she brings forth a handsome, finely-cut crystal smelling bottle. … [S]he drops some of its contents on that square of sugar, and before you can say “Jack Robinson” she’s popped it into her mouth, downed it like a Kentucky thoroughbred.'

The cologne itself, however, was not designed to be ingested and could have serious health consequences. Most colognes contain a high proportion of alcohol, ranging from 20 to 95%. This alcohol can cause drowsiness, inebriation, and dangerously low blood sugar in both children and adults. Other potential side effects include slurred speech, depressed breathing, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, and seizures. In extreme cases, cologne poisoning can lead to coma or even death.

The dangers of drinking cologne are well-known, and poison control centres offer guidance and support for those who have ingested cologne or other sources of alcohol.

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