What effects does smelling feces odor have on the body?
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
If one occasionally smells the odor of feces, it generally does not have any significant effect on the body; however, it might affect nervous system function. Fecal odor is primarily produced by bacterial byproducts in feces, such as skatole and hydrogen sulfide. If exposure to the smell occurs only briefly during toilet use in daily life, the harmful substances carried in the odor may enter the respiratory tract.
Occasionally smelling fecal odor generally does not have any significant impact on the body; however, prolonged exposure may affect nervous system function. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. No effect:
Fecal odor mainly comes from bacterial byproducts in feces, such as skatole and hydrogen sulfide. If one only briefly smells fecal odor during normal toilet use, the harmful substances contained in the odor are typically blocked by the body's respiratory defenses and cleared from the body, thus usually causing no harm.
2. Possible adverse effects:
Prolonged exposure to fecal odor allows harmful substances to enter the respiratory tract and subsequently circulate through the bloodstream, potentially leading to neurological dysfunction. This may manifest as dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting. Individuals experiencing such symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
In daily life, it is advisable to avoid prolonged stays in such environments. When necessary, wearing a mask can help protect the nose and mouth.
