What symptoms can be caused by excessive formaldehyde levels?

Aug 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

After the neighbor moved into the new house, they experienced chest tightness and coughing. Therefore, I would like to learn about the symptoms that can be caused by excessive formaldehyde levels.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi

When formaldehyde levels exceed the safety standards, individuals may experience discomfort symptoms such as redness and itching of the skin, coughing, throat swelling, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

1. Redness and Itching of the Skin: Formaldehyde is a common chemical substance found in household building materials, furniture, and cleaning products. The gaseous form of formaldehyde is toxic and may cause symptoms such as redness, itching, dryness, and rashes upon skin contact. It is recommended to take saltwater baths, which may help relieve itching caused by skin allergies. For severe cases, timely medical attention is advised, and medications such as Loratadine tablets, Fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, and Zinc oxide ointment may be used under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

2. Coughing, Throat Swelling, and Difficulty Breathing: Formaldehyde strongly irritates the respiratory tract. When the respiratory mucosa is affected, symptoms such as coughing, throat swelling, and difficulty breathing may occur. Symptomatic relief can be achieved with medications such as Compound Liquorice Oral Solution, Hydrocortisone tablets, and Dexamethasone tablets, used under a doctor's supervision.

3. Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea: Excessive formaldehyde exposure may also cause digestive system symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Additionally, it may affect the nervous system, causing symptoms like headaches, reduced appetite, fatigue, and insomnia. Treatment may include medications such as Metoclopramide tablets, Chlorpromazine hydrochloride tablets, and Cefixime capsules, used according to medical advice.

In daily life, individuals should avoid staying in environments with excessive formaldehyde levels. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.