Phenyl cleaners sound deathknell

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, May 22

Medical experts have raised concern over the use of phenyl cleaners for their adverse impact on health.

Dr SJS Luthra, a paediatrician, said phenyl cleaners used to mop floors and scrub bathrooms, kitchens contained chemical compounds such as phenols and carbolic acid. These corrosive substances were toxic to respiratory and circulatory systems and directly affected central nervous system, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and blood vessels. Phenyl poisoning can occur when phenols come in contact with the skin or eyes or when they are inhaled or swallowed.

Dr Luthra said phenyl poisoning required immediate medical attention. In cases of skin contamination, one should swab the skin with water, changing the swab frequently. If eyes have come in contact with phenyl, wash them with lots of water for at least 15 minutes. If the liquid has been ingested, one should not attempt to induce vomiting or dilute the phenol as that would increase its absorption rate. The patient should be rushed to hospital.

Dr Luthra further said phenyl damaged every part of body. Ingestion of phenyl could have serious health consequences and cause lasting gastrointestinal damage and even death, he said.

Ironically animals too were not safe from phenyl either. Drinking water with high concentrations of phenols has caused muscle tremors, difficulty walking and even death in animals. Short-term exposure has led to irritation of the respiratory tract and muscle twitching. Some birth defects have been observed in animals born to females exposed to phenols during pregnancy.