Benzene is a clear, oil-based liquid chemical. Sources of potential benzene exposure range from gasoline and diesel fuel to more unusual substances such as benzene-containing varnish remover. However, according to the CDC, tobacco smoke is one of the most significant sources of exposure to benzene. When a person touches, inhales or swallows benzene, he is at risk for benzene poisoning, which damages cells and can result in many symptoms, some of which are life-threatening.
Changes in Heart Rate and Rhythm
Benzene poisoning -- either by inhaling benzene or by eating or drinking benzene-containing items -- may cause the heart to start beating abnormally quickly, a condition called tachycardia, defined as a heart rate that is more than 100 beats per minute. In addition, the heart may start beating in an abnormal rhythm -- this is called an arrhythmia. Certain arrhythmias are especially concerning because they can result in cardiac arrest which often results in death. Anyone concerned about possible benzene exposure and poisoning should seek medical attention right away. Although there is no specific antidote to benzene poisoning, getting medical help and treating the symptoms can reduce the risk of long-term damage or death.
Nausea and Vomiting
A person who has ingested benzene -- either by drinking or eating something that contained high levels of benzene -- will often feel nauseated and begin vomiting, usually within a few minutes to a few hours after ingesting the contaminated item. MedlinePlus reminds patients that induction of vomiting -- making the person who has been poisoned throw up on purpose -- is not recommended unless a health care professional has made this suggestion.
Blurry Vision
People who work in industries that use benzene may accidentally be exposed by touching benzene, or by having it splash onto the skin or into the eyes. If the latter occurs, the benzene exposure will cause damage to the cells within the eye, resulting in blurry vision.
Changes in Levels of Consciousness
People who have been exposed to benzene either by inhalation or ingestion may start feeling much more drowsy than usual. As the benzene poisoning worsens, drowsiness may lead to feeling extremely sleepy and then to unconsciousness. In extremely severe cases -- when the levels of benzene within the body are very high -- patients may never regain consciousness and die from their exposure to benzene.
