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The Effects of Breathing Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide is an odorless and colorless gas that can occur in basements, manholes and sewer lines. Though normally odorless, high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas give off a "rotten egg" smell, and can be lethal to humans and animals. There are many ill-health effects from breathing hydrogen sulfide gas, with the severity depending on the level and duration of the exposure. It is therefore important to test for the levels of hydrogen sulfide gas in the above-mentioned areas.

  1. Low Concentrations

    • Low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can be hard to detect. Sometimes an odor won't be present in the area at all. Exposure to these low concentrations can affect the eyes, nose and respiratory system, and can cause breathing difficulties for asthmatics. Others may experience a burning sensation, teary eyes, coughing and shortness of breath. Continued exposure may cause eye inflammation, headaches, fatigue, irritability, weight loss and insomnia. These symptoms could last for several hours or several days, especially if a person continues to work in low-concentrated areas.

    Moderate Concentrations

    • Exposure to moderate concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas could cause severe irritation to the eyes and respiratory system. This can include coughing, fluid in the lungs and difficulty breathing. Additional side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and staggering.

    High Concentrations

    • High concentrations of hydrogen sulfide are the most dangerous. Exposed people should seek emergency attention right away. Symptoms include shock, inability to breathe, convulsions, loss of consciousness, coma and death. Sometimes these effects can take place in just a few breaths or even a single breath. High concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can also cause explosions and fire, although this can happen with any concentration levels.

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