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.