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Is Prolonged Inhalation Of Paint Fumes Harmful?

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Posted on Fri, 19 Jun 2015
Question: I was using Valspar black chalkboard paint to paint a wall and the mist and fumes were very heavy. This was about three hours ago. I just looked in the mirror and noticed that both nostrils were completely black with the paint. I know it must be in my lungs too. What do I do?
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Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (49 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
For now, monitor only!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about these paint fumes that you inhaled. At this time, we can only manage any symptoms as they arise. If you have any symptoms that cannot be tolerated, then seeking medical consultation would be helpful at this time. However, being able to communicate to us tells me that you are not in need of immediate medical examination and treatment at this time from any severe symptoms.

The best approach to environmental pollutants is to keep them away. For this reason, you should always wear a protective mask each time you are manipulating this paint to ensure that you minimize any chances inhaling the fumes.

Most exposures are not especially harmful if it happens only once or twice. Consequences would only occur after several years if you continue to get exposed to it. For now, avoid manipulating paint if not necessary and always use a protective mask when working with it.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ivo Ditah

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 3984 Questions

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Is Prolonged Inhalation Of Paint Fumes Harmful?

Brief Answer: For now, monitor only! Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about these paint fumes that you inhaled. At this time, we can only manage any symptoms as they arise. If you have any symptoms that cannot be tolerated, then seeking medical consultation would be helpful at this time. However, being able to communicate to us tells me that you are not in need of immediate medical examination and treatment at this time from any severe symptoms. The best approach to environmental pollutants is to keep them away. For this reason, you should always wear a protective mask each time you are manipulating this paint to ensure that you minimize any chances inhaling the fumes. Most exposures are not especially harmful if it happens only once or twice. Consequences would only occur after several years if you continue to get exposed to it. For now, avoid manipulating paint if not necessary and always use a protective mask when working with it. I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.