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Fear of paint fumes
We started painting work 2 weeks back...n we stayed in the house while it was getting painted...it's a 1 bhk...400 sq.ft...well ventilated house...during painting the smell of primer and paint thinner was very strong ...we had eye irritation and throat irritation...now it's been 1 week painting work is over ...so I still need to worry ? I fear a lot ...will anyone get affected by fumes after 1 week of painting ? I am overthinking ...plz help...
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Hi,
Paints smell can be long lasting. You just need to keep the windows n well ventilated.
Nothing will happen.
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Hi
Thanks for reaching out. The smell of the painting was strong and there was eye irritation and throat irritation. How is the eye irritation and throat irritation now. If it is still there talk to a doctor about it. If you are anxious about getting affected by fumes consult a psychologist. A psychologist will guide you on techniques to manage anxiety and feel calm. You are probably not able to stop thinking about primer and paint thinner. With the help of counselling sessions you will be able to overcome anxious thoughts about primer and paint thinner.
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Consult a psychologist
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Contact me for counselling sessions. Along with counselling I can suggest natural foods to calm the mind.
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Hi,
I understand, It’s normal to worry after exposure to strong paint fumes, but after a week, the risk is very minimal, especially in a well-ventilated house.
The immediate symptoms like eye and throat irritation are common during painting and usually subside quickly after the exposure ends.
To flush out any toxins and alleviate throat irritation, try warm saline gargles and artificial tears can provide symptom relief if needed.
Most harmful fumes from paint, including VOCs, dissipate significantly within a few days, so there’s little to worry about now if the smell has gone.
To ease your mind, continue to keep the space well-ventilated, use fans if needed, and stay hydrated.
If you’re still worried, remind yourself that short-term exposure rarely causes harm.
However, if symptoms like dizziness or breathing issues persist, consult a doctor.
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Practicing mindfulness or deep breathing can help calm your mind .
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Hi you have a valid reason for the fear, actually should always take precautionary measures like staying out until the house gets painted.... Actually kids only will get affected soon..... Most probably the fumes may cause nasal congestion etc., try breathing in and out......get some morning fresh air..... Do pranayama...... Day time keep the doors open....
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If you still have fear you can consult with the Pulmonologist who might check your breathing tract and give you any medications if required
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Always avoid such a situation... this is not an abnormal fear...it is normal because of chemicals and toxic elements.... but you can get the fear cleared by a Pulmonologist.
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Ms. Farheen Moulana
Psychologist
3 yrs exp
Bangalore
Hi, I can understand your concern on paint fumes. As you have mentioned, that you stayed in the house while the paint works were going on, so it could be the proximity and exposure would have caused this. Usually these concerns are medically resolvable. If you still experience the same discomfort beyond 15 days then I would suggest you consult a medical professional for the same
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Ms. Pooja Gupta
Counselling Psychologist
4 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi,
It's understandable to be concerned about the lingering effects of paint fumes, especially after experiencing symptoms like eye and throat irritation. Typically, the strong odors from paint and primer can persist for several days to a week, especially in smaller, enclosed spaces. Since you've noted that the painting work was completed a week ago and youâre still feeling uneasy, it's worth considering a few factors.
First, ensure that your living space is well-ventilated; open windows and doors to facilitate airflow. If you still notice a strong odor, it might indicate that some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are still present. While many modern paints and primers are designed to have lower VOCs, they can still produce prolonged fumes in certain conditions.
Generally, by now, the levels of harmful fumes should have diminished significantly, but sensitivity can vary among individuals. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for peace of mind. Trust your instincts and prioritize your healthâif you feel discomfort, itâs always best to seek advice. Taking precautions like using air purifiers or keeping your environment well-ventilated moving forward can also help to ensure a safer living space.
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consult if needed
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Ms. Smriti
Counselling Psychologist
17 yrs exp
Bangalore
Just keep your window and door open for ventilation.Nothing will happen.practice deep breathing
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