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Cardiac arrhythmia and betel nut chewing--is there a causal effect?
W T Chiang1, C C Yang, J F Deng
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan Hsien, Taiwan, ROC.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|October 21, 1998
Summary
Betel nut chewing may cause serious cardiac dysrhythmias, including potentially fatal events. This study reports two cases of betel nut-induced cardiac toxicity, highlighting the need for awareness among healthcare providers.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Betel nut consumption is prevalent globally, particularly in Taiwan.
- While known to affect the autonomic and central nervous systems, cardiac toxicity from betel nuts has not been previously documented.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with severe cardiac events immediately following betel nut consumption.
- Case 1: A previously healthy male experienced chest tightness, dyspnea, and died shortly after chewing one betel quid.
- Case 2: A younger male developed palpitations and chest distress after consuming four betel quid, diagnosed with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.
Findings:
- The temporal association and pharmacological properties suggest betel nut ingestion as the cause of cardiac dysrhythmias in both cases.
- Betel nut-induced cardiac toxicity is a plausible, yet underreported, phenomenon.
Implications:
- Increased betel nut consumption necessitates heightened clinical suspicion for cardiac events in affected individuals.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of betel nut cardiotoxicity.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential cardiac risks associated with betel nut use.