Question 1

what health problems does polyurethane cause?

Accepted Answer

Questions toxicity: Toxicity of any substance depends on a  number of factors, not the least of which include: route & form of administration, amount consumed, & other medical predispositions.  With polyurethane, there may be adverse effects on the respiratory tract, vascular system, & reproduction, to name a few.  I encourage you to search  websites like pubmed to learn more.  If questions, avoidance is a good plan.

Question 2

i have neurophy! does working once with polyurethane contribute toward this problem?  i used to do gym floor re-coatings for many years.

Accepted Answer

No: While flooring products have been shown to cause neuropathies, you would have needed continuous exposure for years to acquire a neuropathy from them.  One exposure usually doesn't cause them. Look into other sources.

Question 3

does smelling polyurethane in a room with it painted/refinished months ago cause miscarriage risk? is there a diff in danger between freshly painted poly vs poly that has been off gassing for months?

Accepted Answer

Smelly solvents: The fact is that men who are exposed to smelly solvents at work have lower sperm counts and their partners have higher miscarriage rates.   Respirators and gloves are crucial.

Question 4

can a man be allergic to polyurethane?

Accepted Answer

Yes: You should see an allergist or dermatologist for patch testing to determine what chemical sensitivities you really have.

Question 5

floors were redone in apt below mine with polyurethane. smell came into my place and was very strong. they said it was safe for me to stay. was it?

Accepted Answer

General guidelines: suggest that those who might be especially affected by fumes--pregnant woman, elderly and sick and young children--should avoid exposure.  Brief exposure such as you describe might cause some lung irritation or aggravation of asthma (if you have it) or a headache, but this brief exposure should not have worrisome long term health effects for you. Stay well:)

Question 6

is 100% polyurethane foam pillow safe to sleep on with just the pillow case on it? the foam came inside of a ziplock cover initially, but removed it.

Accepted Answer

Unless: you are sensitive to polyurethane or it's chemical constituents it is safe...If you are concerned purchase
a pillow "slips" (with zipper closure) available at any BED&amp;BATH or similar store (NOT A RECOMMENDATION FOR SPECIFIC STORE/BRAND)
Hope this is helpful
Dr Z

Question 7

do polyurethane condoms rally work as well as latex condoms?

Accepted Answer

Not really: Studies of the effectiveness of latex vs polyurethane condoms demonstrated that non-latex condoms are not as effective (higher slippage & breakage rate)  as latex condoms. But they are  considered an effective substitute for someone with latex allergies.

Question 8

what is the best type of lubricant to use with polyurethane condoms?

Accepted Answer

Lots of options: Anything that does not cause skin irritation is just fine. Certain oils can dissolve latex condoms. Avoid the lubricants that have scents added or things to make the skin feel hot. Astroglide and pjur are safe and effective.

Question 9

wood floors just refinished with oil-based polyurethane. fumes /smell is horrible. have two kids under 5. how long should we leave the house?

Accepted Answer

When tolerable: Air out the house and ask the floor experts for the recommendations the manufacturer has regarding the care of the product used and when to return.

Question 10

was using polyurethane for our kitchen got really sick. still  sob, chest hurts lungs hurt just all around don't feel good. anything i can do?

Accepted Answer

Need to get out: The fumes from it can cause trouble breathing, you need to be out of the house for the next couple of days until they dissipate, stay with a friend for 2-3 days and air out the kitchen.

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Doctor answers about:

What health problems does polyurethane cause

A member asked:

What health problems does polyurethane cause?

A member asked:

I have neurophy! does working once with polyurethane contribute toward this problem? i used to do gym floor re-coatings for many years.

A member asked:

Does smelling polyurethane in a room with it painted/refinished months ago cause miscarriage risk? is there a diff in danger between freshly painted poly vs poly that has been off gassing for months?

A member asked:

Can a man be allergic to polyurethane?

A member asked:

Floors were redone in apt below mine with polyurethane. smell came into my place and was very strong. they said it was safe for me to stay. was it?

A member asked:

Is 100% polyurethane foam pillow safe to sleep on with just the pillow case on it? the foam came inside of a ziplock cover initially, but removed it.

A member asked:

Do polyurethane condoms rally work as well as latex condoms?

A member asked:

What is the best type of lubricant to use with polyurethane condoms?

A member asked:

Wood floors just refinished with oil-based polyurethane. fumes /smell is horrible. have two kids under 5. how long should we leave the house?

A member asked:

Was using polyurethane for our kitchen got really sick. still sob, chest hurts lungs hurt just all around don't feel good. anything i can do?

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