Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can cause allergy. Skin contact with formaldehyde in the intimate areas of the body can cause contact dermatitis. Clothes treated with formaldehyde can cause itching in the areas where there is friction between the body and the fabric. This article talks about symptoms of formaldehyde allergy.
About formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is the chemical that is found in many products of daily use. It is used in products such as laundry detergents, household cleaners, glues, shampoos, adhesives and soaps. Formaldehyde resin is used to make clothes wrinkle free. It is also used in various types of finishes for fabrics.
Here are the symptoms of formaldehyde allergy: Symptoms of the allergy depends on the kind of exposure. Upon direct contact, the symptoms are seen on skin as rashes or lesions. When exposed to formaldehyde in gaseous state, the symptoms manifest in chest, eyes etc.
- Skin rashes
- Lesions on the skin
- Discoloration and irritation of skin
- Burning sensations in chest
- Burning sensations in eyes, throat and nose
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Tightness in chest
- Unusual fatigue
- Migraines
- Coughing and wheezing
- Nausea and vomiting
- abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
These symptoms can be mild to severe depending on the extent of exposure and physiological condition of the person. Symptoms usually get progressively worse with longer exposure. Women are more prone to formaldehyde allergy than men. It is due to the body structure of women and women’s clothing.
The first thing to do is flush the allergic area with a lot of cold water. If you have symptoms in digestive system drink a lot of water or milk so as to dilute it. You should consult a doctor once you get any of the above symptoms.
