Is inhaling camphor safe?

Camphor Inhalation Safety: Significant Health Risks

Inhaling camphor is not safe and can lead to serious toxicity including seizures, respiratory depression, and potentially death. 1, 2

Health Risks of Camphor Inhalation

• Camphor is a highly toxic volatile compound that can cause significant health problems when inhaled, with symptoms developing rapidly after exposure 1
• Inhalation exposure can lead to a range of symptoms from mild to severe, including:
  • Respiratory irritation and distress 2
  • Neurological symptoms (confusion, agitation, restlessness) 1
  • Seizures, which can occur as early as five minutes after exposure 1
  • Cardiac arrhythmias in severe cases 1

Acute Toxicity Manifestations

• Initial symptoms of camphor toxicity include sweating, agitation, and restlessness 1
• Progression to more severe symptoms can include:
  • Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (the most prominent manifestation) 1, 2
  • Respiratory depression requiring intubation 1
  • Altered mental status and confusion 1
  • Cardiac complications including arrhythmias 1

Management of Camphor Exposure

• For inhalation exposures, immediately move the affected person to fresh air 2
• Medical referral should be based on the presence and severity of symptoms 2
• For symptomatic patients, treatment is primarily supportive:
  • Seizure control with benzodiazepines 2
  • Respiratory support as needed 1
  • Cardiac monitoring for potential arrhythmias 1

Long-term Effects

• While most sources state that camphor toxicity resolves within 24-48 hours, persistent effects have been documented 3
• Some patients may experience prolonged symptoms including:
  • Persistent delirium and headache 3
  • Neurological symptoms lasting for days to weeks 3
  • Complete recovery may take up to 19 days in some cases 3

Special Considerations

• Camphor is found in many over-the-counter products including rubs, balms, and oils 1
• There is no specific antidote for camphor poisoning; treatment is supportive 1, 2
• Even small amounts of camphor can be dangerous, particularly for children 4
• Patients who remain asymptomatic after 4 hours following exposure can generally be safely observed at home 2

Risk Reduction

• Avoid using camphor-containing products near the face or in ways that promote inhalation 1
• Be aware that camphor is present in many common household products like Tiger Balm and Vicks 1
• Store camphor-containing products securely away from children 4
• Consider safer alternatives for respiratory symptoms or other conditions for which camphor is traditionally used 4