A dangerous ‘Condom Challenge’ which involves inhaling an unwrapped condom through one’s nostril and pulling it out of the throat through the mouth, has gone viral on social media, and health officials are worried.
According to Daily Mail, the challenge has been around for several years but is reportedly making a comeback on the heels of the Tide Pod Challenge that made headlines earlier this year.
Experts warn that snorting condoms not only poses a serious choking risk but could also lead to infection.
There are dozens of videos on YouTube showing the challenge is taken. One of the videos from 2015 shows teen unwraps a condom and unrolls it before sticking it in his nostril. He then winces as he closes the other nostril with his finger and inhales the white rubber sheath up into his nose. Seconds later he gags as he pulls the condom out of his mouth.
Health experts have urged people to stop participating in the potentially dangerous trend.
Snorting condoms is a choking hazard because the rubber could potentially get caught in a person’s airway and block their ability to breathe.
The spermicidal lubricant found on most condoms can also irritate the inner lining of the nose and cause allergic reaction or infection.
Accidentally swallowing the condom could also lead to serious complications.
With reports, photos, from dailymail.co.uk