Exposure may continue for many years before an allergy develops. Included in this list are turpentine and solvents. The part of the system injured depends upon how soluble the material is in water. Insolubles are more dangerous. Poorly soluble gases affect the lower respiratory system, including the air sacs, because gases reach deeper into lungs before dissolving into the lung lining.
Pneumonia is possible because fluid in the lungs provides an ideal growth medium for bacteria.
Respiratory allergies can develop from the use of many woods, bone, ivory and shell dusts, fiber-reactive dyes, formaldehyde, and turpentine. Fibrosis may develop. Flu symptoms appear a few hours after exposure and disappear in 24-36 hours. Complete recovery expected. Chronic bronchitis results in a narrowing of air passages and leads to increased difficulty in breathing.