$Unique_ID{BRK02020}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Detecting "Metal Fume Fever"}
$Subject{Metal Fume fumes Fever welding metallic oxide headache cough fevers
muscle pains nausea smelting soldering electroplating metal galvanizing
allergic responses allergic response allergic reaction allergic reactions
allergy allergies occupational hazards toxic fumes}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Detecting "Metal Fume Fever"


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QUESTION:  Do you have any information about a flu disease that comes from
welding?  My husband has a mysterious disease that his doctor said came from
the fumes he had breathed in during work.  What can you tell me about this?
We have never heard about anything like it before.

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ANSWER:  It is probable that your husband is affected by the fumes that are
created during the welding process.  Metallic oxide particles are generated
which are then inhaled.  Sometime later a flu-like reaction is seen that
includes headache, cough, fever, muscle pains, and even nausea.  It has been
named "Metal Fume Fever" and can also be seen in people who work in any
business where such fumes are produced, for example smelting, soldering,
electroplating and metal galvanizing.  The syndrome may result from an
allergic response, and the symptoms usually pass quickly.  It is rare that any
serious complications develop, and the whole thing is usually over in from 12
to 24 hours.  The secret to diagnosing this "mysterious" disease is a careful
history that requests information about the patient's occupation, and an
alert physician.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.