Inhaling spray paint fumes can be dangerous and have a range of adverse health effects. The toxic chemicals in the paint can pass into the blood and affect all organs, including the heart, liver, kidneys, and bone marrow. Short-term effects may include irritation, contact dermatitis, skin and eye burns, vomiting and diarrhea, irritation of the nose, throat and lungs, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Long-term effects may include high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders.
If you have breathed in toxic spray paint fumes, it is important to get some fresh air and drink milk or water to calm your stomach if you feel nauseous. It is also recommended to contact the poison control center. When using spray paint, it is important to wear a nose mask and spray paint in a ventilated place, if possible outdoors. Air purifiers or systems are the ideal solution to eliminate and neutralize paint odors that are present inside your home after spray painting.
Vapor therapy is also an effective way to remove spray paint from the lungs by inhaling the vapor as it clears the airway and increases respiratory performance. It is important to use the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) when applying spray paint to an item in your household. It could take up to two months for a person to recover from inhaling spray paint fumes, although the exact time is not known. If you have been exposed to spray paint fumes, it is important to take steps to clean your lungs as quickly as possible.
