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What Causes Sore Throat After Inhaling Spray Paint Fumes?

Posted on Fri, 14 Apr 2017

Question: I spent the day yesterday going back and forth to my garage spray painting two canvases. I would spray the canvas, which took about 5 mins, then would leave the garage and come back into the house. I did this throughout the day. In total I used about a can and a half of spray paint. I sprayed towards the floor, but in hindsight was close to the canvas. I have a sore throat now and a very mild headache. I recognize these may be side effects, but do I need to be worried about long term effects?

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Unlikely to have long term harm

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Welcome and thanks for your query.
You have developed a mild inflammation of the throat ( Pharyngitis) and headache by inhaling the paint.
This would settle with time and you are not likely to have any long term deliterious effect as the paints these days are devoid of lead and other substances producing long term harm.
Do get back to me if you have further queries.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (6 hours later)

Thank you so much for your response! I've developed chest congestion and a cough throughout the day. I had a head cold earlier this week, so it's entirely possible the the cough/congestion is an extension of that. Should I be concerned about the cough/congestion being from the paint?

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (25 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Welcome. Please see below

Detailed Answer:
Sorry for the delay in replying.
If there is no fever, yellow sputum or breathlessness there is nothing to worry. An OTC cough syrup may be sufficient.
If you are not better, it may be good to see a doctor and have yourself examined and treated well.
Take Care,

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar