An autopsy of a Massachusetts teen who died after participating in a spicy tortilla chip challenge says his death was caused by eating a large quantity of chile pepper extract.
Large doses of capsaicin can increase how the heart squeezes, putting extra pressure on the artery, noted Dr. Syed Haider, a cardiologist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.
Is it the nerves or the muscles of the heart that have this reaction to capsaicin? And does it only target the heart?
Is it the nerves or the muscles of the heart that have this reaction to capsaicin? And does it only target the heart?
I don’t think it’s a direct reaction. I think it’s much more likely that capsaicin induces stress and that messes with the heart.