Is a high exposure to varnish fumes harmful to me and my health?

Question

Varnish fumes from a renovation in the apartment above me is going on and they are extremely strong. Unfortunately I cannot open any windows. They are painted shut. I have a air purifier that seems to help a little, but all day long I can taste that smell. I don't want this stuff in my lungs! Help! Thanks!

Answer 1

not really, but the chemicals (usually toluene, xylene) which are "Flash thinners, build up in the body and are stored there, so over long periods of time they will do damage, but generaly if only exposed to concentrated form for a short period of time your heart level will increase, the oxygen in your body is burnt more "efficiently" and you get a major headache afterwards!

If your windows are welded shut, then you or your landlord have to do something about it! what happens if there is a fire? also damp will set in and cause breathing problems! and shoot the painter for doing that to the windows!!!!

Answer 2

poor......you have to make a wide ventilation

move to a new one....or talk to your above apartment guy.....that you need clear air........okay

Answer 3

Varnish fumes are temporarily toxical. As soon as you'll finish with the renovation of your apartment your body will "recover" from the eventual intoxication. However, this is not such a serious problem of intoxication as you can easily get rid of the inhaled toxines by taking a holliday off in the mountains for example or somewhere you'll get some fresh air.  Here's the source where I found this: http://www.myhealth-forum.com/ . Just relax and try to stay away from home as much as possible in this period.  

Answer 4

All chemical fumes are harmful in one way or another They should have ventilation going on to prevent the fumes from seeping into your apartment. Call the city and explain, they well make sure they have proper ventilation, good luck.

Best answer?

Answer 5

Yes! All fumes cause irritation to membranes and mucus!!

Answer 6

you need to unstick those windows and open them up....its unhealthy to never have fresh air. Your apartment is probably filled with germs