Skip to main content

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in many household products; examples of VOCs include acetone, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Exposure to volatile organic compounds may cause symptoms such as headaches; nausea; and eye, nose, and throat irritation.

Products that may contain volatile organic compounds include:

  • New furniture and carpets.
  • Paints, paint strippers, and other solvents.
  • Wood preservatives, hobby supplies, and dry-cleaned clothing.
  • Aerosol sprays, cleansers, and disinfectants.
  • Moth repellents and air fresheners.

Volatile organic compounds may cause serious symptoms, such as loss of coordination, liver damage, and damage to the central nervous system. Some volatile organic compounds are suspected to cause cancer in humans and are known to cause cancer in animals.

The level and length of exposure to volatile organic compounds determine the health effects. Controlling exposure or only using household products with adequate fresh-air ventilation may prevent serious health effects.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.