Today, October 18, is the 237th day of Ukraine's struggle not only for independence, but actually for existence. The terrorist government of the invader continues the policy of nuclear blackmail and terror, not only with constant threats to use nuclear weapons, but also by creating an extremely dangerous situation at nuclear energy facilities.
Of course, the world reacts to such events, because the tragedy of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant on April 26, 1986 taught humanity that the danger of even a peaceful atom cannot be underestimated. European countries centrally purchase iodine preparations, the health ministries of some countries recommended that the population stock up on such preparations.
Therefore, we believe that everyone should be reminded of what iodine preparations are and how they can help.
One of the threats that may arise as a result of a radiation disaster is the spread of radioactive iodine isotopes. Such iodine can settle on the skin, get into the soil and water, and cause external radiation. After entering the body, it accumulates in the thyroid gland. And this, in turn, can lead to diseases, including malignant ones. According to the WHO, children, pregnant women and breastfeeding women are especially sensitive to the effects of radioactive iodine.
Normally, iodine ions accumulate in the cells of the thyroid gland and take part in endocrine metabolism (thyroid hormones). Scientists recommend taking iodine preparations so that normal "healthy" iodine accumulates in the thyroid gland and there is no room for radioactive iodine. This is the so-called iodine blocking method of the thyroid gland.
Potassium iodide (KI) preparations are used. However, it should be understood that this is not an antidote for radiation exposure. It protects only the thyroid gland and only if there is a risk of internal exposure to radioactive iodine (for example, an accident at a nuclear power plant). CI does not protect against any other radioactive substances that may be released into the environment as a result of a nuclear accident, does not protect against external radiation, for example, from radioactivity deposited on the ground, surfaces or food products; and does not prevent the penetration of radioactive iodine into the body, but prevents its accumulation in the thyroid gland.
KI should not be considered as a blanket protection measure in anticipation of an event. The effectiveness of the application depends on the timeliness of the appointment and dosage. WHO emphasizes that it is advisable to take CI within 8 hours after exposure, but no later than 24 hours. In case of repeated or unavoidable long-term exposure, repeated use of KI is possible. Repeat doses are not recommended for children under 1 year, pregnant women, nursing women and people over 60 years of age. The American Center for Disease Control (FDA) generally recommends prescribing KI to persons over 40 years of age only in case of significant exposure risk.
Like any drug, KI can also cause side effects, although they are unlikely. These are skin rashes, swelling of the salivary glands, "iodism" (metallic taste, burning in the mouth and throat, pain in the teeth and gums, cold symptoms, sometimes indigestion and diarrhea) and allergic reactions.
Therefore, we draw the attention of not only patients, but also doctors - KI should not be taken in conditions of a "probable nuclear event".
Take care and be healthy!
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