Using Borehole Water to Rinse Mouth Risky — Aproko Doctor

Nigerian doctor and health educator Chukwuma Okoro, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, has warned that untreated borehole water used for rinsing the mouth could expose people to harmful bacteria and germs.

Aproko Doctor issued the warning in a video shared on X, urging Nigerians to check the water used for oral hygiene, particularly borehole water.

He said untreated water could contain Helicobacter pylori, commonly known as H. pylori, a bacterium associated with peptic ulcers.

According to medical guidance, H. pylori infection is one of the common causes of peptic ulcers and can spread through contaminated food or water.

Aproko Doctor explained that contamination could occur when water sources are poorly protected or when borehole pipes are located close to pipes connected to soakaways.

He advised people who are uncertain about the safety of their water to treat it before using it to rinse their mouths.

He recommended boiling, proper filtration or appropriate chemical disinfection as measures that can reduce bacterial contamination in water.

The health educator also warned against assuming that borehole water is automatically safe simply because it comes from underground.

He said people should be particularly cautious in areas where water treatment systems are inadequate or where the source and condition of pipes are unknown.

Beyond contaminated water, Aproko Doctor identified frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen and diclofenac, as another factor associated with peptic ulcers.

Aproko Doctor urged people experiencing persistent stomach pain or other concerning symptoms to seek medical attention rather than self-medicate.

He noted that medical professionals can use different methods to investigate suspected H. pylori infection or peptic ulcers, including breath tests, stool tests and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

He also warned people not to ignore black or tarry stool, which can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding and requires prompt medical attention.

While borehole water can be safe when properly constructed, protected, tested and treated where necessary, its quality can vary depending on the location, surrounding environment and maintenance of the water system.

Aproko Doctor therefore urged Nigerians to verify the safety of their water supply and take appropriate precautions before using untreated water for drinking, cooking or oral hygiene.

He stressed that taking simple steps to ensure water safety could help reduce exposure to microorganisms that may pose health risks.