Environmental Exposure - Fatigue and Toxicity
- Victoria Wermers, RN,MSN,FNP, PMHNP
- Oct 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 22
Common Toxic Chemicals and Materials in the Home and at Work
Everyday chemicals found in the home and in the workplace include chemicals such as pesticides, radon, carbon monoxide, solvents, cleaning products, heavy metals, asbestos, and even air fresheners and certain candles—to name only a few. These can cause both short-term and long-term health problems. Initial symptoms of toxicity often include fatigue, weakness, headaches, lightheadedness, and eye irritation. Over time, exposure may lead to more serious conditions- such as lung and heart problems, and can even increase the risk of cancer. No wonder so many people suffer from health problems.
People are often exposed to toxins at home and at work, some of which are downright toxic and life-threatening. If you find yourself feeling perpetually fatigued and/or lightheaded, you need to inspect your environment. If environmental toxins are a possibility, do some investigating.
Environmental Exposure - Fatigue and Toxicity
Recognizing and Responding to Chemical Exposure
Avoid or change your environment
Sudden Exposure: Fatigue and lightheadness are among the first symptoms you experience when exposed to a toxin. If your symptoms started suddenly, and you were working around a suspected toxin (above), remove yourself from the environment into fresh air. Call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency, or consider calling poison control if non-emergent
Poison Control 800-222-1222
or
check online at: https://triage.webpoisoncontrol.org/#!/exclusions
Chronic Exposure: If you believe you have been chronically exposed to suspected toxins and have developed symptoms like chronic fatigue, lightheadedness, headaches or neurological symptoms (i.e., confusion, concentration), attempt to minimize the time you spend around the suspected chemical or switch to a safer alternative.
Ongoing cough and fatigue? While asbestos products have been highly regulated in the last few decades because of their proven cause of mesothelioma, many older people were chronically exposed to it in the past, in their everyday jobs and while serving in the military. Additionally, it is still found in the environment. Learn more about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma here:
https://www.webguidetohealthcare.com/post/post-ongoing-cough-causes-approaches
Replace specific chemicals or solvents: Consider using a different type or formulation that’s less hazardous.
Use protective gear: A mask or hood (when appropriate) may reduce exposure risks.
Monitor symptoms: Track changes in energy, lightheadedness, discomfort, or other health concerns that may be related to exposure. If you are unsure about the nature of the chemical you have or are being exposed to you can also call (ASAP if acute exposure)
If you suspect workplace chemical exposure is affecting your health, start by inspecting your environment and reading product labels. For workplace-related concerns, consult your company’s OSHA Safety Data Sheets (SDS)—employers are required to provide access to these for all potentially hazardous substances. You can also visit the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for expert guidance on workplace chemical safety.
Seeking Treatment
A sudden exposure should be addressed immediately by a healthcare provider. If you believe you have or are a victim of long-term exposure to environmental toxins, you should contact a healthcare provider ASAP (some companies prefer you follow up with their occupational medicine departments; however, there are cases where you may want to seek a second opinion).
Environmental Exposure - Fatigue and Toxicity mimic signs and symptoms of other conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider.
Not sure about the cause of or approaches to your fatigue, explore other causes and approaches to fatigue here - Fatigue: General Overview
