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Can Laryngitis Be Caused By Exposure To Paint Fumes?
Question: Hi, Yesterday my husband and I walked into our new house which is in the process of being painted and floors refinished. We left after around 10 minutes. That night we both experienced Laryingitis. Neither one of us has a cold or any other symptoms of sickness. I have NO voice and he is horse. Could we have caused permanent damage by perhaps inhaling a toxic substance. Non of the workers were wearing masks It is too much of a coincidence that we both got colds at the same time. What do you think?
Brief Answer:
toxic laryngitis would sound strange but I can't exclude it
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
although laryngeal irritation can be caused by exposure to toxic substances, staying for 10 minutes in a painted house does not sound like enough reason for it. As you've noticed the workers did not wear masks and they were exposed to the potentially toxic substances but without symptoms (I suppose). If any of you caught a cold it's very likely that the other one would get it also because most viral respiratory tract infections are very contagious.
You'd better ask an Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) specialist for evaluation of your condition. Direct visualization of the larynx may provide clues (signs of inflammation, mobility of the vocal cords, etc).
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
toxic laryngitis would sound strange but I can't exclude it
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
although laryngeal irritation can be caused by exposure to toxic substances, staying for 10 minutes in a painted house does not sound like enough reason for it. As you've noticed the workers did not wear masks and they were exposed to the potentially toxic substances but without symptoms (I suppose). If any of you caught a cold it's very likely that the other one would get it also because most viral respiratory tract infections are very contagious.
You'd better ask an Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) specialist for evaluation of your condition. Direct visualization of the larynx may provide clues (signs of inflammation, mobility of the vocal cords, etc).
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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