Signs & Symptoms of Exposure to Paint Solvents

Exposure to paint solvents involves volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their effects on human health. VOCs are emitted as gases from substances such as paint solvents. Because solvents are generally used indoors, the signs and symptoms of exposure will be greater due to the higher concentration. The effects vary depending upon whether exposure is short-term or long-term.

Short-term Effects

• Headaches are a sign of exposure to paint solvents.

  Signs and symptoms of brief exposure include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, loss of coordination and nausea. Assuming exposure was limited and the individual is exposed to fresh air, these symptoms should subside. When painting indoors, ventilate the room to avoid these symptoms. If symptoms are noted, stop painting.

Long-term Effects

• Buildup of paint solvent VOCs leads to confusion and memory loss.

  As a result of long-term exposure, usually associated with individuals who work with paint professionally, signs and symptoms may surface. One such sign would be memory loss and confusion, both indicators of damage to the brain. Just as with short-term exposure, headaches are a sign. In this case, they persist and never seem to go away.

Kidney Problems

• Exposure can cause kidney damage, which first shows as anemia, fatigue, increased blood pressure and then kidney dysfunction, which can lead to kidney failure.

Further Signs

• Individuals exposed to paint solvents can exhibit sleep disturbances, euphoria, hallucinations and seizures. Further symptoms include nose and throat irritation with the common thread of headaches.