You accidentally ate 4 tablespoons of baking powder in your coffee - you thought it was milk .?

- Gastrointestinal discomfort: Consuming a large amount of baking powder can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

- Fluid imbalance: Baking powder contains high levels of sodium bicarbonate and aluminum, which can disrupt fluid and electrolyte balance in the body when ingested in large amounts. This can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

- Increased blood pressure: The high sodium content in baking powder can contribute to increased blood pressure, especially in individuals who are sensitive to sodium or have preexisting hypertension.

- Respiratory issues: Inhaling baking powder can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

- Electrolyte abnormalities: The excessive intake of baking powder can affect electrolyte levels in the body, particularly calcium and magnesium, leading to potential imbalances.

- Skin and eye irritation: Direct contact of baking powder with the skin or eyes can cause irritation and discomfort.

Immediate actions to take:

- Induce vomiting: If you can safely induce vomiting, it can help remove some of the baking powder from your stomach before it is fully absorbed.

- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help dilute the effects of baking powder and flush out any remaining particles from your system.

- Monitor symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms, and if you experience any severe or worsening discomfort, seek medical attention promptly.

- Contact poison control: In cases of accidental ingestion of large amounts of baking powder, it's advisable to contact a poison control center for further guidance and advice.