A middle-aged man who takes care of horses was in his barn on a hot Southern California August day. While working, he reached back for an eight-ounce water bottle, and chugged it down. Feeling the heat beat on him like a cruel hammer, he was forced to sit down. He felt ill, had blurry vision, was unable to move his legs and passed out at high noon.
Minutes later, his wife found him flat on his face and began to panic. She fumbled with the phone and called 911. Our patient was rushed to the emergency room where a head CT scan showed no bleeding. Because of neurological changes, he was diagnosed with a possible stroke. No heart attack was detected and his heart appeared strong.
By late afternoon, my patient appeared alert. “What were you doing in the barn?” I asked. “Working.” “Did you have any chest pains or pressure?” “No.” “Do you recall what happened to you?” “No, I don’t Doc.” “Did you eat anything funny?” “No.” “Did you drink anything funny?” “No, just a bottle of water.”
His wife’s eyes grew big. She gasped as she placed her hand over her mouth. “You drank from that bottle?” “Yes, it’s my water bottle,” he said. “No, no, I placed Dipyrone in that bottle, I didn’t think you’d drink it!” Dipyrone is used for calming horses, usually injected into muscle. It is clear like water, a central nervous system depressant, and not used for human consumption. After startling his family and medical personnel, our patient was discharged home 24 hours later with full resolve. There was no malice or foul play in this loving family, but our patient surely tasted the ill effects.
As consumers we are constantly drinking from the bottle, whether marked or not. If the bottle is full of tobacco, don’t be surprised with the stroke or cancer. Bottles full of cholesterol usually lead to heart attacks. The bottle jammed with anger will usually lead to depression. Bottles filled with grace, mercy and love will pour out endless joy wherever they go. Before you take the next sip, make sure you know what’s brewing in your bottle.
For further information on your cardiovascular health, contact Dr. Kojoglanian at 661-259-1711. The Mender of Hearts is located at 24868 Apple Street, Suite 103 in Santa Clarita. You may also visit drrap.com.