Table of contents:
- Recognizing the dangerous ingredients in mosquito repellents
- Pyrethrum
- DEET
- So, is it okay to use mosquito repellent spray?
- What to do when inhaling or swallowing insect repellent
Mosquito repellent is one of the most helpful household necessities. Well, one of the most practical and often used types of mosquito repellent is a mosquito repellent spray.
Although very useful, it is widely known that mosquito repellent has its own dangers that can harm the body, especially when inhaled. What are the contents and dangers of inhaling mosquito repellent spray for health? Check out the answer here.
Recognizing the dangerous ingredients in mosquito repellents
Pyrethrum
The pyrethrum substance in the insect repellent spray is a substance contained in chrysanthemum juice. This substance is extracted by drying the chrysanthemum flowers and then extracting the juice.
Pyrethrum has also been known for a long time and is believed to be an insect killer drug. If these substances enter or are absorbed into the body continuously or in large doses, it can cause nervous system damage and reduce immunity.
This substance can also trigger asthma if it is inhaled into the lungs. In addition, other symptoms that arise if it has entered the body in large quantities are that it can cause symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
If this substance is ingested, it can cause more dangerous effects such as seizures and death.
DEET
A study conducted by the Institute of Development Research in France in the journal BMC Biology, suggests that DEET in mosquito repellents can be dangerous.
DEET or diethyltoluamide is known to have the potential to interfere with the activity of an enzyme that is important for proper functioning of the nervous system. In the study, the researchers found that DEET inhibited the cholinesterase enzyme. This enzyme is important for delivering messages from the brain to the insects' muscles.
DEET is a dangerous substance contained in insect repellent spray. This substance is categorized as dangerous to health due to its corrosive nature. The dangers that arise include it can irritate the skin. If it comes in contact with the eye, it will be even more dangerous because it can cause burns to the eye.
So, is it okay to use mosquito repellent spray?
Given the dangers of inhaling insect repellent spray, it's a good idea to use a mosquito repellent spray or cream made from natural ingredients for the skin. In addition to protecting it longer because it sticks to the skin, you also reduce the risk of breathing air that has been contaminated with harmful substances.
Meanwhile, if you still have to use indoor spray repellent, leave the room immediately after spraying it. Also make sure you cover your sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and food and drinks so you don't get contaminated with sprays.
What to do when inhaling or swallowing insect repellent
Do not immediately vomit out the contents of your stomach if you accidentally swallow the insect repellent. It is better to drink water or drink milk to neutralize toxins. If the insect repellent gets in contact with skin or eyes, wash it with running water for at least 15 minutes.
If you accidentally inhale insect repellent spray, especially large amounts, get out of the room and get fresh air. Meanwhile, if you show symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and seizures, you should immediately seek emergency medical help.
