Reading the label may sometimes not be enough

[JimmieSParticipant @jimmies]

For several years I have sprayed a well known acetic acid (vinegar) based cleaner to remove algae from the drive, always taking note of instructions and reading the safety data sheet (I have mild asthma/COPD) with no ill effects whatsoever. Until now. Shortly after recent use I started to cough and wheeze, becoming extremely breathless. Two days later I attended my GP who, unable to diagnose a cause, referred me for bloods and an appointment with the Asthma Nurse. With my condition continuing to deteriorate I revisited the GP three days later.

Before the appointment my wife and I were discussing possible triggers when she suggested I google ‘effects of using acetic acid’ and both of us were shocked to read of known side effects which were totally absent from the label.

‘In use the fumes can attack the nose, throat, and lungs, releasing hydrogen ions. This process creates a localized acidic environment that irritates the wet tissues, triggering a defence mechanism. The body’s immediate reaction to this chemical irritation is the primary source of discomfort.
Inhaling vinegar vapour, even from standard household concentrations, can lead to immediate, observable signs of irritation in the upper respiratory tract. Common responses include a burning sensation in the nose and throat, which is often accompanied by an involuntary cough as the body attempts to expel the irritant.

For most individuals, these symptoms are temporary and quickly subside once they move to an area with fresh air. However, individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions may be more susceptible to serious effects. People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or chronic sinus issues may experience an exacerbation of their underlying symptoms, such as bronchospasm or prolonged, intense coughing fits. Acetic acid vapour can trigger an asthmatic response in vulnerable people, making careful use a necessity.’

Whatever caused my health hiccup I shall never know for certain but a suitable mask will be worn next time.

 

 

 

[duncan webster 1Participant @duncanwebster1]

According to something I read recently, biological washing powder dissolved in hot water is just the thing for removing algae and moss from your drive.

[jimmy bParticipant @jimmyb]

I use soda crystals. Just sprinkle on the drive and wet with a misting hose.

After a few days all is clear.

 

Jimb

[Robert Atkinson 2Participant @robertatkinson2]

If using Google or similar search engines, particuarly “AI” based responses, it always pays to chase the source of the information down to a reliable source. This applies whatever the subject of the search. I often see that the AI results from Google have authorative but completely wrong results. I don’t use the AI features as a rule and only use the search results to find a reputable source.
It’s surprisng how incorrect information gets promulgated on the web. This happened even before the rise of AI. You would see the same incorrect information on many websites. Often this included the same words including spelling mistakes. A couple of times I was able to trace it back to one ill informed website.

Robert.

[VicParticipant @vic]

It’s funny you should mention that Jimmie. I had fish and chips yesterday and when I bit into a pickled onion I had a little coughing fit. I must have breathed in at the same time? It has happened once or twice before. I used to work with strong acetic acid many years ago, we used to mix it with water to make a stop bath for a photographic processor. It was nasty stuff.

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