82-Year-Old Chinese Woman Swallows 8 Live Frogs in Desperate Attempt to Relieve Back Pain

Introduction:
An 82-year-old woman from Hangzhou, China, has sparked national attention after ingesting eight live frogs over two days to alleviate chronic lower back pain. This unconventional method, rooted in folk medicine, led to severe health complications, highlighting the risks associated with unverified traditional remedies.

The Incident:
Surnamed Zhang, the elderly woman had been suffering from a herniated disc for years. Upon hearing that consuming live frogs could ease her condition, she instructed her family to catch small frogs, each no larger than an adult’s palm. Without informing them of her intentions, she swallowed three frogs on the first day and five on the next.

Health Complications:
Following the ingestion, Zhang experienced severe abdominal pain and difficulty walking. Her son rushed her to Zhejiang University No. 1 Affiliated Hospital, where doctors conducted tests revealing a significant increase in oxyphil cells, indicating parasitic infections. Further examination confirmed the presence of sparganum, a parasitic tapeworm, and other parasites, leading to damage to her digestive system.

Medical Perspective:
Dr. Wu Zhongwen, a senior physician at the hospital, noted that such cases are becoming more common. He mentioned treating patients who had consumed raw frog gall, snake gall, or applied frog skin as home remedies. These practices, often fueled by misinformation, can lead to serious health issues, including vision loss, brain infections, or even death.

Conclusion:
Zhang’s case underscores the dangers of relying on unproven folk remedies, especially among the elderly who may be more susceptible to misinformation. Medical professionals urge the public to consult healthcare providers before attempting alternative treatments and to be cautious of unverified health practices circulating on social media.