Formaldehyde poisoning

Many people, when exposed to even low levels of formaldehyde may experience allergic health effects. Many individuals have no symptoms at all even after being exposed to elevated levels of formaldehyde chemicals. Some of the associated signs and symptoms of formaldehyde poisoning involve:

• Breathing difficulties

• Sleep interference

• Fatigue

• Skin irritation

• Nausea

• Headaches

• Irritation of the eyes, throat, and nose

• Watery eyes

• Wheezing

• Skin rashes

• Sore throat

• Nosebleeds

• Scratchy eyes

• Excessive coughing

• Burning and aching stomach and G.I. tract when the chemical is swallowed

• Abnormally low blood pressure (hypotension) in severe cases

• Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) in severe cases

• Ongoing restlessness and irregular breathing occur in severe cases

• Unconsciousness

Generally, children, older adults, and people with asthma and other breathing problems are more likely to experience symptoms. Data suggests formaldehyde takes about two years to off-gas back to normal levels.