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Lacquer vapor poisoning
Last reviewed: 13.07.2024
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Inhalation intoxication with paint and varnish materials is very common. The risk group includes people whose occupations involve working with these substances, as well as those who are engaged in renovation or decoration work. Prolonged stay in a closed room leads to damage of the organism by paint vapors.
Symptoms of the lacquer poisoning
Symptoms of poisoning:
- Headache and dizziness.
- Corneal redness.
- Itching and burning eyes.
- Tearfulness.
- Nausea and vomiting, diarrhea.
- A scratchy throat, sneezing.
- Coughing fits.
- Heart palpitations.
- Suppression of cardiac and respiratory activity.
- Loss of consciousness.
The danger of toxic damage is that it imposes certain consequences on the body, which manifest themselves within a short period of time or have a chronic character.
Treatment of the lacquer poisoning
The first thing to do if a person has inhaled nail polish vapors is to provide him/her with access to fresh air (take him/her outside, unbutton/remove constricting clothing). Open areas of the body are washed with plenty of clean water. The victim is recommended to drink plenty of alkaline water (mineral water, tea, milk) and take sorbents that bind toxic substances and promote their excretion.
If the victim is unconscious or comatose, he/she should be evacuated from the contaminated room and an ambulance should be called. Until the paramedics arrive, the person should be placed on their stomach or on their side to prevent vomit from entering the respiratory tract. If the patient has a weak heart rhythm or decreased breathing, indirect cardiac massage and artificial respiration are indicated.
To minimize the risk of exposure to paint, work should be carried out in special clothing and respirator, and eyes should be protected. Take breaks during work and go out for fresh air.