Health Hazards and Symptoms of Sewage Contamination Can You Get Sick from Breathing in Sewage Smell

Health Risks of Sewage Contamination

Sewage, or wastewater, is a complex mixture of human waste, industrial chemicals, and other organic matter. When sewage is not properly treated or disposed of, it can pose a significant health risk.

Exposure to raw sewage can cause a range of health problems, including:

Gastrointestinal illness: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites in sewage can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Skin and eye infections: Contact with sewage can lead to rashes, itching, and eye irritation.
Respiratory infections: Breathing in sewage fumes can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Can You Get Sick from Breathing in Sewage Smell?

The short answer is yes. Breathing in sewage smell can make you sick, even if you do not come into direct contact with the sewage itself.

Sewage fumes contain a variety of harmful chemicals, including:

Hydrogen sulfide: This gas can cause respiratory irritation, nausea, and vomiting.
Ammonia: This gas can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
Methane: This gas is flammable and can cause an explosion if it builds up in a confined space.

Exposure to these chemicals can cause a range of health problems, including:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Difficulty breathing

In severe cases, exposure to sewage fumes can lead to death.

What to Do If You Are Exposed to Sewage

If you are exposed to sewage, it is important to:

Get out of the area immediately
Wash your hands and any other exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water
Remove any contaminated clothing
Flush your eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes
See a doctor if you experience any symptoms

Sewage Cleanup Services

If sewage has entered your home or business, it is important to have it cleaned up by a professional sewage cleanup service. Sewage cleanup services use specialized equipment and techniques to safely remove sewage and clean up the affected area.

Contacting a sewage cleanup service is the best way to ensure that your home or business is safe and sanitary after a sewage spill.