The Short-Term And Long-Term Health Effects Of Benzene Exposure

Because benzene is used in the production of a number of chemicals, it is common in many industrial work environments in Texas. However, while it is key in the process of making a wide array of products like plastics, adhesives, dyes, rubbers, and lubricants, it is also extremely hazardous to humans.

There are two major sets of issues that arise when humans and benzene mix: the short-term health effects of being exposed to high levels of benzene and the long-term health effects of those exposed to low levels of benzene.

Here are the possible symptoms and health effects you may experience when exposed to a benzene leak for a short period of time:

• Confusion and drowsiness.
• Rapid heart beat.
• Dizziness.
• Headaches.
• Tremors.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Coma.
• Death.

These symptoms will vary in severity depending on how much benzene you breath in or consumer.

Benzene can be even more dangerous if you are exposed to low levels of the chemical over a number of years. Benzene can damage bone marrow and blood cell production as well as the immune system and the function of many major organs. The long-term health effects of benzene exposure include:

• Cancer, such as leukemia.
• Chronic anemia.
• Reproductive problems.
• DNA and chromosome damage.
• Liver damage.
• Kidney damage.
• Heart damage.
• Lung damage.
• Brain damage.

Most people who suffer from health problems related to long-term exposure to low levels of benzene either work in the manufacturing industry or live near a manufacturing plant.

Although the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration strictly limits the amounts of benzene that workers can safely be exposed to, benzene leaks are all too common in the Texas manufacturing industry. If you believe that you have been exposed to benzene while on the job, speak with a TX worker injury attorney today.