Teres Bergström, 32, from Vingåker, suffered a severe allergic reaction after using a dentist-prescribed toothpaste. Swollen lips and breathing difficulties prompted her to call an ambulance. The company behind the product has launched an investigation.
Last week, Teres Bergström tested a new toothpaste prescribed by her dentist. Immediately after brushing, she felt a stinging sensation in her mouth. Looking in the mirror, she saw her lip had swollen, and she joked with her husband about her new 'Botox lips'.
Her condition deteriorated rapidly. She began to shiver, feel unwell, and struggle to breathe. An hour after brushing, she called a medical service, which advised her to go to the emergency room or summon an ambulance. Paramedics arrived at her home and administered antihistamines first, followed by cortisone when the swelling persisted.
The next day, the swelling was barely noticeable, and sensation in her lips returned after nearly a week. Bergström has not used the toothpaste since and contacted the manufacturer. 'They apologized for what happened', she says, noting that the company has initiated a review and will follow up with her.
The incident has affected her psychologically, especially since it involved something as routine as toothpaste. 'I understand if it's an apple or orange, but damn toothpaste. I've never heard of anything like it before', she states. The ambulance crew had also never encountered such a case.