Table of contents:
- Why do some people smell like gasoline?
- Not everyone likes the smell of gasoline
- Long-term effects of gasoline exposure
It is common to like smells from perfume, fruit, to wet grass. Uniquely, there are also people who like to smell from unusual sources, such as gasoline.
For those who like it, the smell of gasoline is considered even more pleasant than perfume. On the other hand, this motorized vehicle fuel can cause nausea for those who do not like it.
What is the real scientific reason behind this phenomenon?
Why do some people smell like gasoline?
Gasoline is a derivative product of crude oil which is obtained by pumping petroleum from the ground. This liquid consists of many hydrogen and carbon atoms connected to each other to form a chain of hydrocarbon molecules.
Typically, hydrocarbon chain groups containing 7-11 carbon atoms are used to make gasoline. Compounds included in this group include butane, pentane, benzene, toluene, and xylene.
Based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are about 150 chemical compounds contained in gasoline. When you smell gasoline, you are actually inhaling all of these chemicals in the form of vapors.
One of the compounds that makes many people love the smell of gasoline is benzene. Benzene has a sweet aroma that is nice when inhaled. These compounds also cause effects in the form of hallucinations and euphoria, similar to the effect of alcohol.
Benzene works by suppressing the function of the central nervous system. If inhaled in excess amounts, this compound can cause impaired coordination of the body and ability to speak, dizziness, and cause loss of consciousness.
Not everyone likes the smell of gasoline
For people who are accustomed to the smell of gasoline or simply like it, the effects of the compounds in gasoline may not be a problem. However, the compounds in gasoline turned out to not only have a pleasant euphoric effect.
For some people, exposure to gasoline can have other effects that are more disturbing than the euphoria that arises. These effects include:
- Disorientation
- Firefly head
- Headache
- Coughs
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hard to breathe
- Trembling and muscle weakness
On average, the effects of smelling gasoline will appear within 1-5 minutes. This condition certainly causes discomfort. Therefore, not a few people choose to avoid when they have to refuel their cars, for example.
Long-term effects of gasoline exposure
Exposure to gasoline for a short time is generally harmless. The effect will decrease after you breathe in the fresh air. If you continue to inhale the aroma of gasoline for a long time, it will have detrimental effects on health.
Like drugs and alcohol, the smell of gasoline can also be addictive. Petrol addiction is a dangerous condition. The reason is, sufferers are at risk of experiencing long-term health problems, such as:
- Kidney illness
- Nerve and brain function disorders
- Decreased muscle function
- Changes in attitude and decreased intelligence
In order to prevent side effects for health, try to limit your exposure to gasoline when you are on the move. Avoid smelling gasoline or taking deep breaths when you need to refuel.
Keep your vehicle or gas station temporarily away from anyone who lives in the house, especially children. Immediately consult a doctor if someone closest to you experiences certain symptoms after being exposed to the smell of gasoline.
