In a shocking medical case in India, a young man in his early twenties was found to have swallowed a variety of metal objects, including keys, nail clippers, and even a knife. The discovery was made after the man’s mother noticed the keys to her wardrobe were missing. When questioned, the man admitted to swallowing the keys, a claim his mother initially dismissed as a joke.
However, a subsequent trip to the hospital in Motihari, Bihar, confirmed the truth of the man’s statement. An ultrasound revealed not only the missing keys but also other indigestible objects within his digestive system. The medical team, led by Dr. Kumar, was able to successfully extract the items, which included nail cutters and a folding knife, in a delicate operation.
The patient is reportedly recovering well after the operation. His mother has attributed his unusual behavior to an addiction to social media and the internet, suggesting that excessive screen time had negatively impacted his mental health. Dr. Kumar supported this theory, linking the man’s actions to excessive smartphone usage.
The exact diagnosis for the man’s condition remains unclear. However, his behavior could potentially be a sign of pica, a mental health disorder characterized by the compulsion to swallow non-food items. This condition is most commonly seen in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, and schizophrenia.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of excessive screen time and internet addiction, as well as the importance of mental health awareness and care.