Chinese Boy Lands in ICU After Drinking Cold Beverages in Hot Weather
A 7-year-old boy from Henan, China, was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after drinking cold soda and milk tea during hot weather. Dr. Huo Yufeng of Zhengzhou University Hospital diagnosed the child with acute volvulus and intestinal necrosis, attributing the condition to the excessive consumption of cold, sweet beverages.
How cold drinks caused a medical emergency
The child initially presented with common symptoms, including vomiting and stomach pain. Medical examinations revealed acute volvulus, a medical emergency where the intestine or part of the digestive tract twists, creating a blockage that can stop blood flow to intestinal tissues.

According to Dr. Huo Yufeng, the boy also suffered from necrosis, which is the death of cells within the intestinal tissue. The incident occurred after the child played outdoors in hot weather and consumed one glass of soda and one glass of cold milk tea.
Who faces the highest risk from cold beverages?
Medical experts suggest that children, particularly those under three years old, should avoid consuming large amounts of cold water suddenly during hot weather. This is because a child’s intestines are not yet fully developed and remain fragile.
Similar warnings apply to the elderly, whose intestinal functions often decline. According to the report, consuming cold water during hot weather may lead to cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases.
What are the recommended guidelines for cold water?
To prevent digestive issues, experts advise against drinking cold beverages on an empty stomach or immediately after eating. These habits are linked to potential gastrointestinal distress.
Following these guidelines could reduce the likelihood of severe reactions in high-risk groups. Future medical guidance may place more emphasis on these specific volume limits during extreme heat events to prevent similar emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is acute volvulus? It is a medical emergency where the intestine twists, causing a blockage that can stop blood flow to the intestinal tissue.
- What are the safe limits for cold water consumption? Healthy adults are advised to stay under 500 ml, while children and the elderly should limit intake to 250 ml.
- When should you avoid cold drinks? You should avoid them when your stomach is empty or immediately after a meal.
Do you monitor the temperature of the drinks your children consume during summer heatwaves?