What happens If You Get Sawdust in Your Lungs?
- Inside the lungs are microscopic air sacs, or alveoli. Inside the alveoli are special cells called macrophages that will push the dust particles back up to the throat. Eventually, you either swallow or spit out the dust. Long-term exposure or dust in large quantities will overwhelm the macrophages.Dust accumulates in the air sacs where it causes injury to the lungs and irreversible damage. Symptoms of Dust Inhalation
The symptoms of sawdust inhalation are the same as any allergen: - Sneezing
- Coughing
- Stuffed or runny nose
- Nasal congestion or pain
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Shortness of breath
If you are having difficulty breathing or have shortness of breath, coughing more, or notice excess mucus, it could be due to inhaling dust particles. You should consult with a doctor right away before it leads to scarring and irreversible lung damage.
How Do You Get Sawdust Out of Your Lungs?
The only effective way to clear your lungs is the natural process of coughing. Breathe filtered or dry, air-conditioned air as much as possible.
What are Common Sources of Dust?
60% of household dust comes from outside, either from the air or hitchhiking on our shoes and clothing. As for wood dust, sanding, routing, and sawing are the byproducts of woodworking. There’s no doubt that breathing dust is bad for you. The next question is…
What Dust Mask is Best for Woodworking and Sawdust?
The best N95 dust masks fit snugly around your mouth and nose. They should have two or three adjustable straps that comfortably seal the mask around your mouth and nose. Additionally, they should have disposable filters and a way to vent the breath down and away from your eyes to prevent your glasses from fogging.
Thank you for doing what you’re doing.