'Peer pressure' forces teens to participate in dangerous challenge

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For years, child proofing has helped kids stay out of dangerous substances.

Now, teenagers are purposefully getting into those same chemicals -- for fun.

It's called the "Tide Pod Challenge" and you don't want your kids doing it.

A trauma nurse at Hendrick Medical Center explained why the new crazy is so dangerous.

"I've heard people say they look like candy, but the concentration is what's most concerning because of the size," said Lacy Milford, RN and trauma program manager with Hendrick Medical Center. "It's a very concentrated version of that detergent."

This challenge has gone viral suggesting that teens ingest the detergent by itself or with other foods. Milford warns that doing so could have terrible side effects.

"Anytime you ingest a substance that's corrosive, you run the risk of having poisoning symptoms that might occur," said Milford.

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms that, if spotted, poison control should be contacted.

Milford also says kids with asthma could also see an "exacerbation of respiratory problems." Shortness of breath, wheezing and burning of your esophagus are other unpleasant symptoms.

Protecting your kids starts in the home.

"What are your child's behaviors on social media?" Milford said. "Try to remember that teenagers that are in high school are influenced by their peers. They have a need to want to fit in. It's the peer pressure that teenagers face to participate in this challenge."

If someone you know ingests a Tide pod or any chemical ingredient, you can contact poison control at 1-800-222-1222.

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