Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in PVC manufacturing and is also a component of cigarette smoke. Short-term inhalation of vinyl chloride vapors can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause headaches and dizziness. Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride is associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
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Teflon flu is a condition caused by inhaling fumes from burning polymer products, usually nonstick cookware. While the symptoms are generally mild and self-limiting, they can be more serious in people with underlying lung problems and can be fatal to pet birds. Teflon flu can be easily prevented by using a few simple, safe cooking techniques.
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Propylhexedrine (Benzedrex) inhalers can be bought without a prescription for use as a nasal decongestant but can be abused to stay alert or to get high. They should not be used for these purposes.
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Inhalant abuse means trying to get high by breathing in vapors, fumes, or aerosol sprays. Thousands of products can be abused by inhaling. These are ordinary household products—and they are poisons. Nearly 20 percent of eighth-graders admit to abusing inhalants, but most parents don't even know about it. Inhalants can kill—even the first time.
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Paints, varnish, and lacquers provide colorful durable wood finish. If inhaled, nausea, headache, dizziness, and respiratory problems may occur. They cause irritation, redness, and burning of skin and eyes. Allergic reactions and dermatitis are possible. Symptoms of ingestion include burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
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Most inhalant abusers, though not all, are in their teens. Thousands of household products have been abused by inhalation. Only 25 percent of inhalant abusers treated in emergency room had no effects; many others suffered serious effects or died.
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Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company.
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Lavender oil is an essential oil used by inhalation for anxiety and sleep disturbances and on the skin to heal wounds. It is generally safe but can cause allergic skin reactions and photosensitivity. If it gets in the eye, irritation and burning occur. It is toxic if swallowed, resulting in potential gastrointestinal, neurologic, and respiratory symptoms.
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Vicks VapoRub has been used for many years as a cough and cold remedy. While this product is relatively safe to use when applied to the skin as directed on the package label, it should not be consumed or applied to the insides of the eyes, ears, or nose. To reduce the risk of burns and serious tissue damage, Vicks VapoRub should never be heated in a microwave.
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Afrin contains oxymetazoline, an ingredient that causes temporary nasal blood vessel narrowing. When used as directed, it reduces nasal congestion. Frequent use of oxymetazoline can cause worsening of nasal congestion after usage is stopped. Some people may continuously use Afrin to avoid these worsening symptoms, and this is often described as “Afrin addiction”.
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