Do you have a headache? Have your eyes been watering lately? Are you coughing more than usual? If so, then it is possible that you are being overexposed to paint fumes. In this post, we will cover the symptoms of overexposure to paint fumes.
1. Headache
The most common symptom of overexposure to paint fumes is a headache. Pain can occur immediately after exposure, or it may come on several hours after you leave the area that was exposed to fumes. This pain may be very intense and not ease up until many days later. People who are exposed to paint fumes on a regular basis may not be able to tell if the pain is coming from the fumes or something else that has happened. These people should know that they are in danger and should take precautions against inhaling fumes in the future.
2. Burning Eyes and Runny Nose or Sneezing
Some people overexposed to paint fumes may notice that their eyes begin to burn and feel irritated. They may also notice that they have a runny nose or are frequently sneezing for several days after exposure to paint fumes. These symptoms should pass after leaving the area and resting for several hours or days.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
If a person continues to experience nausea and vomiting after leaving the area that contains paint fumes, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible. You should not take any hot or cold remedies to relieve the symptoms as this may worsen the situation. In addition, if you have a headache that does not go away after several days, you should contact a doctor right away.
This may also interest you: How to Eliminate Paint Fumes.
4. Increased Perceptiveness
In some cases, people who are exposed to paint fumes may say that they can see more clearly for several days after exposure to the fumes. They may also notice that their hearing is much sharper or cleaner than normal even though they do not have an ear infection.
5. Confusion
Some people who are overexposed to paint fumes may become confused and have a hard time keeping their balance. In some cases, this can lead to seizures, fainting, or even coma. If you begin to notice this symptom after exposure, you should immediately contact a doctor.
6. Anxiety Attacks
In some cases, people who have been exposed to paint fumes may have anxiety attacks several hours later. In addition, they may become irritable and feel as if they are going crazy even though there is no reason for them to feel this way. If you notice either of these symptoms after exposure to paint fumes, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
7. Dizziness and Lightheadedness
People who have been exposed to paint fumes may experience dizziness and lightheadedness for several hours or days after exposure. They may also feel as if they are going to faint and may even feel like they’re losing their mind. If you experience either of these symptoms, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Working in the art industry can be rewarding, but it also means that you will most likely be exposed to paint fumes on a regular basis. These fumes are not only uncomfortable for your health, but they can also cause symptoms like nausea and dizziness. The best way to avoid overexposure is by taking precautions before painting or using solvents- such as wearing protective gear (mask, gloves), a VOC air purifier and ventilation (inhalation).