special subjects
Metal Fume Fever and Polymer Fume Fever
Treatment
Measures to relieve symptoms, including drugs to reduce fever Mechanical ventilation if needed Treatment of metal fume fever and polymer fume fever focuses on relieving symptoms. It may include drugs to reduce fever, such as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Severe cases that resemble ARDS may require treatment with drugs to reduce fever and other symptoms and sometimes measures to assist in breathing (such as Mechanical Ventilation ), for days to weeks. People with metal or polymer fume fever are often referred to the emergency department, but most can be discharged home. Corticosteroids may be given by mouth or by vein (intravenously). Workers with metal fume fever should be cautioned to reduce their exposure to zinc fumes by using personal protective equipment (PPE). If PPE does not adequately control exposure or if several workers are affected, the employer is contacted to implement other measures to reduce exposure. 