You have been exposed to chemical fumes. This may cause symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, eye, nose, and throat irritation, and upper chest pain. It may also cause nausea, headache, and dizziness. The treatment is to breathe fresh air. Symptoms should go away completely within 24 hours. If lung damage has occurred, you may need more treatment.
Breathe fresh air for the next few hours. Stay out of closed spaces with poor air flow.
Don't use any cleaning products, paints, mineral spirits, or other volatile chemicals. Stay away from areas where these things are being used.
Rest until you are feeling back to normal again. This may take up to 24 hours.
During the next 24 hours, don't smoke cigarettes. Also stay away from others who are smoking.
If this exposure occurred at work, contact your employer to make sure that work conditions are safe to return to. Correct safety equipment should be used at all times.
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
Headache, dizziness, or fainting
Shortness of breath or wheezing gets worse
Chest pain gets worse
Confusion, drowsiness, or seizures
Cough with lots of mucus (sputum)
Fever over 100.4º F (38º C), or as directed by your provider
© 2000-2020 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
