Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

Got a mild electric shock - when to see a doctor?

July 11, 2017 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Nadja Struß

Good morning,

about an hour ago, I accidentally touched a casing where a light bulb was supposed to be installed (see photo, center). There was electricity flowing through it, so my left index finger received a slight electric shock. Since I only touched the edge of the casing, the shock was only felt at the tip of my finger - as if I had touched a device that vibrates very strongly. I quickly pulled my hand away in shock. I did not feel any tingling in my hand, dizziness, or any other discomfort. There is nothing visible on my finger; my pulse is normal.

The usual advice is: Still go to the doctor - especially when in contact with low voltage (230V). The problem is that I am currently on vacation (which I unfortunately always spend in the most remote regions possible). Here in Siberia, where I can barely communicate in Russian, I would like to avoid unnecessary hospital visits.

Therefore, I have three questions for you:
-- 1. How likely is it that a healthy 27-year-old will experience heart arrhythmias after a very short and symptom-free electric shock?
-- 2. If such symptoms occur - will I only notice them when it is too late to do anything about it?
-- 3. How many hours typically pass before heart arrhythmias occur? Does the risk decrease already after the first hour or does the risk only start to increase after 4-5 hours?

I am a little worried about this situation and would appreciate your help.

Thank you in advance for your response.

Nadja Struß

Dear inquirer,

Although you only experienced a tingling sensation, which suggests a low current transfer, heart rhythm disturbances or other heart activity disturbances may still occur up to about 6 hours after the electrical accident. Therefore, during this period, EKG checks must be carried out or continuous monitoring must be done.

The electric shock can cause electrolyte imbalances in the body, making the heart more susceptible to rhythm disturbances. The problem is that the affected person may not necessarily notice it - it doesn't always have to immediately trigger ventricular fibrillation.

Therefore, you should definitely go to the hospital, if possible, or call an ambulance. With English, Google Translate, or sign language, you should be able to communicate!

Take care,
Nadja Struß