Radioactive iodine (I-131) can be released during accidents at nuclear facilities. When entering the body, it selectively accumulates in the thyroid gland and causes its irradiation and damage.
The only drug for effective prevention of radiation damage to the thyroid gland contains potassium iodide, the Ministry of Health of Ukraine notes.
When a person takes the right amount of potassium iodide at the right time, it can help block the thyroid gland from absorbing I-131: it absorbs potassium iodide — and has no place for I-131.
Potassium iodide is useful only in certain situations in specific doses and for certain groups of people. So you can't take it "just in case"! It can harm health.
Side effects of uncontrolled intake of stable iodine include:
☛ rash on the skin;
☛ inflammation of the salivary glands with swelling and pain, partial loss of taste and dryness in the mouth;
☛ gastrointestinal disorders - nausea, diarrhea;
☛ serious allergic reactions – fever and joint pain, swelling of body parts (face, lips, tongue, throat, hands or feet), problems with breathing, speaking or swallowing; wheezing or shortness of breath;
☛ disorders of the cardiovascular system: heart rhythm disorders, tachycardia, atrial fibrillation;
☛ disorders of the nervous system: excitement, tremors, hand tremors;
☛ goiter – an increase in the size of the thyroid gland;
☛ loss of body weight;
☛ hyperfunction of the thyroid gland;
☛ decrease in the function of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), which is dangerous due to a decrease in pulse rate and blood pressure;
☛ there is also a risk of death.
Therefore, do not take potassium iodide unless you have been instructed to do so by the health authorities or the EMS.
Follow information from official sources and if you have any doubts, consult your doctor before using potassium iodide.
Public Health Center of Ukraine
Comments