The Dangers of Breathing Fiberglass

Fiberglass first came into use in the early 1930s in the form of filters for various industrial machines. It was later used to filter and insulate home furnace systems, and eventually to insulate against noise and temperature. Fiberglass, a trade name, was coined to describe a manufactured substance made of glass and converted into a fibrous fabric. Dust and particles from fiberglass can cause health problems when they are inhaled, swallowed, or come into contact with your skin.

Inflammation

• When you breathe in the fibers and dust found in fiberglass, your nose becomes sensitive and inflamed. Depending on how much you inhale, you nose will begin to run as your body triggers a reaction to rid itself of this irritant. Your eyes may begin to water as well, starting a chain reaction as your body tries to eliminate the foreign substance.

Spasms

• As the fiberglass enters your trachea or airway, it will continue to cause inflammation. The lining in your airway will begin to produce mucous as your body tries to flush the irritant. You will begin to cough as the mucous irritates your bronchi or breathing tubes. These breathing tubes may constrict, causing spasms and producing a wheezing sound. You will begin to experience difficulty breathing.

Cell Injury

• Scavenging cells within your lungs, called macrophages, try to ingest the inhaled dust particles. These cells become larger and larger, and will eventually burst. In doing so, they will release the particles and chemicals that attract and encourage the growth of cells called fibroblasts, which secrete fibrous tissue. As more and more of these fibroblasts release this tissue, it forms dense scar tissues in place of healthy cells. This damage is irreversible.

Fibrosis

• As the lung tissue becomes scarred, it can no longer accept the oxygen you breathe in and will release carbon dioxide. A drop in oxygen deprives your cells, causing cell and tissue damage throughout your body. When you work around any type of industrial gases, fumes, chemicals or potentially hazardous airborne particles, always remember to wear an appropriate mask to protect yourself from lung damage.