Increasing numbers of people are exposed to dangerous chemicals. You can be exposed through either indirect or direct contact and your body has a way of revealing signs that you are at an increased risk. Some may be immediately noticeable, while others take time to reveal themselves. As soon as you notice any of the following, immediately remove yourself from the area and seek medical help.
Eye Irritations
Your eyes are extremely sensitive to all types of dangerous chemicals. You may have touched an item and inadvertently rubbed your eye. Therefore, the contaminant is now in and around your eyes. You may also have walked into an airborne-contaminated area and began to notice irregularities in your vision.
Burning sensations, dry and itchy eyes, and redness are common symptoms of allergies to chemical exposure. If you notice yellow puss, your eyes may be infected.
Respiratory Concerns
Have you noticed difficulties in your breathing? Your respiratory system may be telling you that dangerous chemicals are around, especially if inflammation and irritation are continuous. Signs include wheezing, shortness of breath, congestion, burning, and soreness when breathing. Others may include pain in your lungs, chest/bronchi, throat, sinuses, ears, nose, and vocal chords.
All Types of Headaches, Especially Migraines
Migraines commonly occur when individuals are exposed to dangerous chemicals in their food, in the air, or through skin contact. You may even experience nausea and stomach upset simultaneously.
Skin Changes
Common body signals of chemical exposure include rashes, itchy skin, and burning sensations. Depending on the individual and extent of exposure, hives may appear. Notice what you are around when these symptoms occur.
Brain Functioning Irregularities
Recent studies reveal there is no barrier between the nose and brain. There are small nerve endings in your nose lining that extend into your brain. This cranial-originating nerve is medically known as the olfactory nerve. It gives you your sense of smell. Whenever you breathe air containing dangerous chemicals, they immediately pass through your nose lining and enter your brain.
You may suddenly start experiencing a loss of balance or coordination. Look for mental impairment including short term memory issues, loss of focus, poor concentration, and feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
Gastrointestinal Concerns
Dangerous chemical exposure is known to hinder your gastrointestinal functioning. Acid reflux symptoms are common body indicators that you may be affected. Notice whether you feel bloated, experience stomach burning, feel constipated, or experience pain in the abdominal area. You may also have pain in your mid-upper abdominal and lower middle chest area, otherwise known as your esophagus area.
Overall Tiredness and Aching
You may feel an overall sense of fatigue or tiredness. Depending on the severity, it can range from a loss of interest in doing everyday activities to an overwhelming lack of energy to even get out of bed. Your energy levels simply are not where they used to be and you experience pain throughout your body.
Symptoms differ according to the individual, exposure severity, and chemical involved. Being aware is the ultimate key to staying healthy. Contact attorney John Snyder today if you or a loved one has been injured due to chemical exposure.
