HYDROQUINONE EXPOSURE

Hydroquinone exposure can pose a risk to people’s health if applied or ingested in high doses. When inhaled, it might be harmful, and it can be lethal when ingested. Hydroquinone is employed as a processing agent in X-ray films, lithography, and black-and-white photography. It’s also used as an intermediary in producing antioxidants for food and rubber and in inhibiting polymerization throughout the processing, storing, and transporting of various industrial monomers.

Furthermore, hydroquinone is a substance that may be used to lighten an individual’s skin tone. It comes in emulsions, lotions, gels, and cream forms. It is typically safe when used modestly, although several individuals might develop adverse effects like dry skin. Chronic work hydroquinone exposure may cause visual impairment, corneal damage, and eye irritation.

SYMPTOMS

People who have inhaled, applied, or ingested high doses of hydroquinone can experience the following:

  • Dry skin
  • Collapse
  • Delirium
  • Convulsions
  • Cyanosis
  • Edema of internal organs
  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Erosion of the gastric mucosa
  • Dyspnea
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Tinnitus

DIAGNOSIS

Since hydroquinone is an electroactive molecule that may undergo reduction and oxidation processes, it could be identified utilizing the voltammetry technique. Furthermore, the following precautions should be taken before starting work and at regular intervals for frequent or excessive hydroquinone exposure:

  • Kidney function tests
  • Skin and allergy testing
  • Eyes and vision examination
  • Liver function test

Any examination must include a thorough record of previous and current symptoms and a physical examination.

TREATMENT

According to specialists, the damage produced by hydroquinone treatment may be reversed by subjecting the afflicted region to sunlight. It is also advised that you wear a strong sunscreen in conjunction with hydroquinone. Administer anti-itch lotion to the affected skin if it is irritated. First-aid treatment for hydroquinone exposure might involve the following:

  • Eye Contact: When it comes into contact with your eyes, flush them thoroughly for at least 30 minutes, raising the top and lower lids. When you are wearing contacts, take them out.
  • Skin Contact: Eliminate contaminated clothes as soon as possible. Wash the affected skin with plenty of water and soap right away.
  • Inhalation: Eliminate the individual from the situation, then start rescue breathing when breathing has stopped, and do CPR if the cardiac activity has stopped.

Seek medical attention immediately after hydroquinone exposure to avoid severe effects on you or the exposed patient.

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