The Effects of Breathing Freon

Freon is a commonly used term for a class of chemicals used typically for refrigeration, either in air conditioning units, refrigerators, or other items that require cooling. These chemicals are most commonly fluorinated hydrocarbons and can be extremely toxic to human beings and other animals if inhaled. Hundreds of individual chemicals are used or combined in freon agents, but inhalation of these chemicals generally causes similar effects.

Respiratory Symptoms

• Common respiratory side effects of freon inhalation include difficulty breathing and a swelling of the throat, which can further impede proper breathing.

Throat and Face Symptoms

• Inhalation of freon may cause severe pain or burning in the throat, as well as severe pain or burning in the eyes, ears, lips or tongue. Loss of vision is also a common symptom of exposure.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Common symptoms of freon inhalation in the gastric and intestinal system include severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, and burns in the lining of the esophagus. Vomiting, including the vomiting of blood, are also possible symptoms.

Vascular Symptoms

• Inhaling freon can lead to an extremely irregular heartbeat, which can eventually lead to collapse or fainting.

Dermal Symptoms

• Freon exposure can cause irritation, burns, frostbite, and even necrosis in the skin or underlying tissues. Necrosis causes small holes to appear in the skin and tissue.

Neurological Symptoms

• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, some freon variants, like Freon 113, can affect the human nervous system upon inhalation. This leads to a multitude of effects, including dizziness, decreased coordination, irregular heartbeat, headache, confusion, and even the loss of consciousness.