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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Will Exposure To Chemical Fumes Have A Long Lasting Effect On Lungs?

Hi earlier on today I accidentally mixed harpic toilet cleaner and bleach in my toilet and whilst cleaning it the fumes were very strong and I struggled to breath for a bit. the fumes subsided and I carried on but have since then felt like I have a bad cold and hs brought on a dry cough and now this evening I can taste blood at the back of my mouth when I cough. will this exposure to the fumes have a long lasting damage/effect on my lungs?
Fri, 24 Jul 2015
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic.
I can understand your concern.
No need to worry for long term effect or damage to lungs.
You are having inhalation injury. Such fumes are very irritable in nature.
On inhalation, these fumes cause irritation, inflammation in nose,throat and trachea (wind pipe).
So patient feels cough, cold and sore throat.
The best treatment for this is avoidance of exposure and inhalation of fresh air.
Anti inflammatory and anti histamine drugs are also needed for symptomatic relief.
So start these drugs and take deep breaths in fresh air.
You will mostly improve in 1-2 days. If not improving than consult doctor.
No need to worry for long term or permanent lung damage.
Hope I have solved your query.
Wish you good health. Thanks.
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Will Exposure To Chemical Fumes Have A Long Lasting Effect On Lungs?

Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. No need to worry for long term effect or damage to lungs. You are having inhalation injury. Such fumes are very irritable in nature. On inhalation, these fumes cause irritation, inflammation in nose,throat and trachea (wind pipe). So patient feels cough, cold and sore throat. The best treatment for this is avoidance of exposure and inhalation of fresh air. Anti inflammatory and anti histamine drugs are also needed for symptomatic relief. So start these drugs and take deep breaths in fresh air. You will mostly improve in 1-2 days. If not improving than consult doctor. No need to worry for long term or permanent lung damage. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.