Question

Which one of these is caused due to excess nitrate in drinking water?
A. Anaemia
B. Haemophilia
C. Blue baby syndrome
D. Kidney damage

Answer 1

Hint: Nitrate is a naturally occurring chemical generated when nitrogen reacts with oxygen or ozone. Although nitrogen is necessary for all living things, high levels of nitrate in drinking water can be harmful to one's health, particularly for infants and pregnant women.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
Excessive concentration of nitrate in drinking water is harmful and can cause methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome). This is caused by a drop in haemoglobin levels in the baby's blood.
Haemoglobin is a blood protein that transports oxygen throughout the body and distributes it to the various cells and tissues. The infant becomes blue because the blood can't deliver oxygen around the body (cyanotic). Blue infant syndrome is uncommon in developed countries, but it does occur in rural regions on occasion.
Nitrate-contaminated water is the most common cause of blue infant syndrome. The body transforms nitrates to nitrites after a new-born drinks formula formulated with nitrate-rich water. These nitrites bond to haemoglobin in the body, resulting in methaemoglobin, which is incapable of transporting oxygen.
In farming communities that use well water, nitrates are the most common contaminants in drinking water. The usage of fertilisers and manure has caused this pollution. Blue baby syndrome is most common in infants under the age of three months; however, it can also affect other populations.
A blue darkening of the skin around the lips, hands, and feet is the most prevalent symptom of blue baby syndrome. This is also known as cyanosis, and it indicates that the infant or person is deficient in oxygen.
Hence, the correct option is C. Blue baby syndrome.

Note:
Complications are usually avoided with medication and close care of the newborn. Blue infant syndrome, on the other hand, can be fatal if left untreated. The majority of children with blue baby syndrome go on to enjoy normal, healthy lives with no long-term health issues.