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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is It Dangerous To Inhale Ammonia And Bleach While Cleaning?

I accidentally inhaled ammonia and bleach while cleaning my bathroom, the door was closed and i spent a little more then 10 to 15 minutes in there. it felt horrible and i didn't know what it was until later, now my throat feels weird and i have to cough to relieve it. Is this dangerous? Have i burned my lungs?
Wed, 6 Jan 2016
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Yes, long duration inhalation of Ammonia and bleach cancer lead to bronchitis.
But 10-15 minutes of exposure is not much worrisome.
Usually this kind of bronchitis is self limiting with avoidance of further exposure and inhalation of fresh air.
But of your symptoms worsen or persist after 1-2 days then better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test).
PFT will tell you about severity of the bronchitis. And treatment is based on severity only. You may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).
Oral anti Inflammatory drugs are also indicated.
So at present, no need to worry. But if your symptoms are persisting then consult pulmonologist.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
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Is It Dangerous To Inhale Ammonia And Bleach While Cleaning?

Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. Yes, long duration inhalation of Ammonia and bleach cancer lead to bronchitis. But 10-15 minutes of exposure is not much worrisome. Usually this kind of bronchitis is self limiting with avoidance of further exposure and inhalation of fresh air. But of your symptoms worsen or persist after 1-2 days then better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). PFT will tell you about severity of the bronchitis. And treatment is based on severity only. You may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Oral anti Inflammatory drugs are also indicated. So at present, no need to worry. But if your symptoms are persisting then consult pulmonologist. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.