Benzene

Also found in: • Explosives • Gasoline • Pesticides

Potential health effects: This substance can cause neurological symptoms including vomiting, dizziness, headaches as well as rapid heart rate. Over time exposure can cause excessive bleeding and immune system problems.

Formaldehyde

Also found in: Embalming fluid • Nail polish • Foam insulation •

Potential health effects: This substance can cause irritation to the nose, eyes, skin, and throat. It is also linked to increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Isoprene

Also found in: Rubber •

Potential health effects: This subs tance is irritating to the eyes , the skin and the respiratory tract. It also possibly causes cancer in humans.

Toluene

Also found in: • Glue • Paint thinners • Stain removers

Potential health effects: This substance causes irritation of the eyes and nose, weakness, exhaustion, confusion, euphoria, dizziness, headaches, lacrimation (discharge of tears), anxiety, muscle fatigue, insomnia, numbness or tingling of the skin, & dermatitis. Long time exposure may cause liver and kidney damage.

Acetaldehyde

Also found in: Perfume • Alcohol • Fruit preservatives • Potential health effects: This substance probably causes cancer. Some side effects of those who have been exposed to acetaldehyde are eye irritation, respiratory tract irritation, increased heart rate, and increased ventilation rate.

Diacetyl

Also found in: • Butter popcorn flavoring

Potential health effects: Long term exposure has been found to be associated with lung disease and other respiratory issues.

Lead

Also found in: Bullets • Weights • Roofing materials •

Potential health effects: Prolonged exposure to lead can lead to abdominal pain, constipation, depression, irritability and nausea. It effects children more than adults and can cause developmental and neurological effects.

Nickel

Also found in: Batteries • Magnets • Coins •

Potential health effects: Exposure to this substance can cause allergic reactions and rashes. Inhalation of high levels of nickel can also lead to chronic bronchitis, reduced lung function and lung cancer.

Cadmium

Also found in: • Oil paints • Car batteries • Metal plating

Potential health effects: Over time, cadmium can build up and cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Short term exposure to high levels can cause fever and chest pain. The substance is linked to kidney, lung, and prostate cancer. Acetone

Also found in: • Nail polish remover • Degreaser

Potential health effects: This substance can irritate the nose and throat. It can also harm the nervous systems at high concentrations. Symptoms might include headache, nausea, dizziness and confusion.

Propylene Glycol

Also found in: Antifreeze • Artificial smoke/fog • Food coloring •

Potential health effects: The substance causes irritation of the throat, nose and eyes. It is potentially toxic to the liver and kidney over long term exposure.

Phenol

Also found in: • Disinfectants • Herbicides • Oral anesthetics

Potential health effects: Long term exposure has been linked to heart disease. At high concentrations this substance can cause skin irritation and stomach damage.