Chemicals that touch skin can cause a limited skin reaction, an overall body reaction, or both.

Chemical exposure is not always obvious. You should suspect chemical exposure if an otherwise healthy person becomes ill for no apparent reason, particularly if an empty chemical container is found nearby.

Exposure to chemicals at work over a long period of time can cause changing symptoms as the chemical builds up in the person's body.

If the person has a chemical in the eyes, see first aid for eye emergencies. If the person has swallowed or inhaled a dangerous chemical, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222.

Depending on the type of exposure, the symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bright red or Bluish skin and lips
• Breathing difficulty
• Convulsions (seizures)
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Hives, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, or weakness resulting from an allergic reaction
• Irritability
• Pain where the skin has come in contact with the toxic substance
• Rash, blisters, burns on the skin
• Unconsciousness