Inhalation of acrolein from tobacco smoke or burning plants
What is acrolein?
acrolein
Acrolein is a clear or yellow liquid that evaporates quickly and burns easily. Acrolein has a strong, unpleasant odor. Reacts quickly when exposed to other substances. Acrolein is also known as acrolein, 2-acrolein, 2-propen-1-one, prop-2-en-1-al, acrolein, acrylic aldehyde, allyl aldehyde, acetaldehyde, water amine.
Where can I find acrolein and how to use it?
Acrolein enters the air through the burning of fossil fuels and tobacco smoke. It forms when animal and vegetable fats are heated. It is also a byproduct of fires and can be toxic to firefighters. Acrolein is mainly used in the manufacture of acrylic acid. It is also used to control the growth of plants and algae in irrigation canals. Acrolein kills or controls microbes and bacteria in oil wells, liquid hydrocarbon fuels, cooling towers and water treatment ponds. In papermaking, acrolein is used to control mucus.
How are people exposed to acrolein?
You may be exposed to acrolein through:
Inhalation of acrolein from tobacco smoke or burning plants. Respiratory exposure can also occur if you breathe the air near a moving car. If you live near an oil or coal power plant, you may inhale small amounts of acrolein. If you work in a place where other chemicals are made, you may breathe acrolein.
Small amounts of acrolein can be found in fried foods, cooking oil, and roasted coffee. How does acrolein work and how can it affect my health?
Inhalation of low concentrations of acrolein can irritate the nose, nasal passages, windpipe and throat. Inhaling acrolein can also cause fluid to build up in the lungs. In cases of severe respiratory exposure, death may result from damage to the lungs and respiratory system.
Eating or drinking acrolein can cause burns of the lips, mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. You may vomit or have diarrhea. If acrolein gets in the eyes, it can cause severe irritation or burns. Exposure to acrolein vapors may irritate mucous membranes. Exposure to high levels of acrolein can also affect the central nervous system.
Acrolein has been named as a possible carcinogen.
How is acrolein poisoning treated?
Treatment options for acrolein poisoning are limited. Medical personnel may treat symptoms of poisoning.
What to do if exposed to acrolein?
Most people are exposed to low levels of acrolein on a daily basis. Health effects are unlikely at the concentrations found here and protective measures are therefore not required. However, for those working in industries that use acrolein, appropriate health and safety procedures should be followed to limit or prevent accidental exposure.
