Exposure to carbon tetrachloride can cause dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, and vomiting, leading to permanent damage to nerve cells. In severe cases, it can result in stupor, coma, unconsciousness, or death. The chemical may also make the heart beat irregularly or stop.
What are the potential health effects of exposure to carbon tetrachloride, and how does it impact the nervous system and the heart?
Share
Exposure to carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) poses serious health risks. Inhalation can cause respiratory irritation, nausea, and headaches. Chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage, and it is classified as a known human carcinogen. Carbon tetrachloride readily penetrates the central nervous system, causing neurological effects such as dizziness, confusion, and incoordination. Additionally, it can affect the heart, leading to cardiac arrhythmias and other cardiovascular issues. Due to these severe health concerns, occupational exposure to carbon tetrachloride is strictly regulated, and measures are taken to minimize contact and protect individuals from its detrimental effects.