Allergic reaction to osb. Symptoms include hives skin rash and redness an itching or burning sensation or blistered skin. Some have reactions so severe that they simply have had to stop and discontinue using certain wood species altogether. Osb emits formaldehyde gas for quite a few days after its made. Dust may cause obstruction in the nasal passages resulting in dryness of nose dry cough sneezing and headaches.
Wood is treated to repel moisture insects fungus and mold. Its not the wood since its just poplar its the formaldehyde. An allergic reaction is similar to the bodys immune response to a bacterium 1. If you are allergic to glues accidental inhalation or skin contact with glues such as epoxy resin can initiate your bodys inflammatory response such as redness and swelling 1.
If you are diagnosed with formaldehyde allergy then if at all possible avoid exposure to formaldehyde containing products otherwise take means to reduce potential exposure. Once dermatitis appears on the skin treatment is as for any acute dermatitis eczema ie. Clear passages and remove to fresh air. Acute exposure is irritating to the eyes nose and throat and subsequent exposures may cause allergic reactions of the skin eyes and respiratory tract.
Seek medical help if persistent irritation severe coughing or breathing difficulty occurs. If you ever have an allergic reaction to any wood that has been identified as a sensitizer use extreme caution in handling or using that species and related species in future instances. Im a framing carpenter and i always react to it. Phenol formaldehyde resin is a chemical reaction of phenol and formaldehyde forming a polymer.
Several different chemicals are used for a diversity of wood product applications. Page 3 of 6 inhalation. A third explanation is that you bought osb that was produced before 2009. Allegic reaction to sawdust dangers associated with breathing sawdust and saftey precautions to take.
Topical corticosteroids emollients treatment of any secondary bacterial infection staphylococcus aureus etc. Once you start scratching you cannot stop. A sensitivity to the chemicals used in these processes often causes an allergic reaction.