Toluene/xylene

Definition

Toluene and xylene are industrial chemicals found in various solvents or other chemicals used in industry or in laboratories. They are extremely toxic, but exposure outside of industrial environments is rare.

Poisonous Ingredient

• toluene
  
• xylene
  

Where Found

• solvents in many rubber and plastic cements
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o weakness
  o staggering
  o tremors
  o Convulsions
  
• respiratory
  o rapid, shallow breathing
  o chemical Pneumonia
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o blurred vision
  o burning pain and damage if exposed
  
• skin
  o pale
  o dry and cracked if exposed
  
• gastrointestinal
  o nausea and/or vomiting
  o loss of appetite
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o irregular heartbeat
  
• nervous system
  o dizziness
  o drowsiness
  o nervousness
  o unconsciousness
  o euphoria (exaggerated feeling of well-being)
  o headache
  

Home Treatment
Seek emergency medical care immediately. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING!

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed: