Inhalation is one route of exposure to turpentine. Usually this is minor but serious intoxication can occur.
Turpentine may be referred to oil of turpentine, gum spirits, or wood turpentine. It is an oleoresin obtained from pine trees. It contains aromatic hydrocarbons including monoterpenes.
Risk factors for exposure:
(1) painter or woodworker
(2) industrial production
(3) chemical spill
Risk factors for volatility:
(1) enclosed, poorly ventilated space
(2) hot temperature
Complications of inhalation and exposure to volatile turpentine:
(1) discomfort in throat with coughing
(2) bronchospasm (asthma) with difficulty breathing
(3) chemical pneumonitis
(4) headache
(5) fatigue
(6) irritation of the eyes
Any absorbed monoterpenes tend to be cleared fairly rapidly.
