Benzene Poisoning

Benzene, a carcinogenic substance, occurs naturally and is also created artificially. It is a colorless liquid, aromatic hydrocarbon, with a relatively high melting point. Benzene also possess the quality of being highly inflammable. Earlier, this chemical was used in gasoline, but after its carcinogenic activity was discovered, its use was restricted. However, it is still considered an important constituent in the manufacture of products such as drugs, plastics, synthetic rubber, and dyes. Crude oil is known to contain benzene as a natural constituent and so do volcanic emissions, and forest fires are known to produce this chemical in the nature. It may also be produced by synthesizing other compounds present in petroleum. Due to the carcinogenic property, benzene has been found to be one of the common causes of cancers and bouts of other medical conditions, as well.

Symptoms that Indicate Benzene Poisoning

Exposure to benzene takes place by inhaling the vapors of this chemical and even by coming into direct contact with it. The common symptoms include drowsiness, weakness or fatigue, rapid pulse, confusion and even unconsciousness. Convulsions and vomiting are also commonly seen. Intensive research have shown that prolonged periods of benzene poisoning run the risk of causing immune system diseases, blood diseases such as leukemia and other kinds of cancers.

Benzene Exposure

Most people are not aware of the ways and means through which this poisoning may occur. The high risk areas for the exposure of benzene occurs in places such as industries dealing with the manufacture of runner, lubricants, plastics, dyes, pesticides, detergent and petroleum products. Apart from these, there are other ways as well, through which this poisoning may occur. They include exhaust from automobiles and smog producing components, contaminated air in gas stations and even tobacco smoke. Benzene poisoning in cars is also something which most people are not aware of. Some experts claim that the dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners inside a car emit this potentially harmful chemical.

Treatment

Benzene poisoning is not curable. However, there are treatment methods for managing the symptoms for short and long-term exposure. There are certain important things which you can do when you suspect that you have exposed to benzene.

• If it is possible, then evacuate the area where benzene has been released. Getting fresh air is one of the best ways to avoid the poisoning.
• Upon suspecting an exposure, remove all your clothing and get yourself cleansed with large amounts of soap and water, as soon as possible.
• Do not commit the mistake of taking the contaminated clothes inside your car or house.
• While getting rid of the benzene-contaminated clothing, remember to unclothe yourself by cutting it off the body instead of pulling it over the head.
• Also, while helping someone, wear protective gloves and try avoiding direct contact.
• Seal the clothes, wearing rubber gloves, in a plastic bag. Hand it over to the health department or emergency personnel.
• If you were wearing contact lenses during the exposure, then dispose them, along with the clothing.
• In case of eyeglasses, get them washed with soap and water before you use them again.

Sometimes, even the water supply of your house may be affected. If it is so, then it is advisable to drink only bottled water, until you are sure of its safety. Also, if you suspect someone to be suffering from benzene poisoning, then call 911 immediately, instead of taking matters into your own hands.