**Health Risks of Sewage** Sewage is a hazardous substance that poses significant health risks due to the presence of microorganisms, viruses, and parasites. Exposure to sewage can lead to: * **Gastrointestinal illnesses:** Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain * **Skin infections:** Rashes, boils, and cellulitis * **Respiratory problems:** Coughing, shortness of breath, and pneumonia * **Eye infections:** Conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and blindness ## Symptoms of Sewage Exposure Individuals exposed to sewage may exhibit the following symptoms: * **Gastrointestinal:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain * **Skin:** Rashes, itching, blisters * **Respiratory:** Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath * **Eye:** Redness, pain, blurred vision * **General:** Fatigue, fever, headache **Can You Get Sick from Breathing in Sewage Smell?** Yes, inhaling sewage odors can lead to respiratory problems, particularly for individuals with preexisting conditions such as asthma or allergies. The pungent smell of sewage is caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the lungs and airways. Symptoms may include: * Coughing * Wheezing * Shortness of breath * Chest pain ## Mitigating Risks from Sewage To minimize health risks associated with sewage, prompt and professional cleanup is crucial. Contacting a reputable Sewage Cleanup Service is essential to ensure safe and effective removal of hazardous materials. Trained technicians utilize specialized equipment to: * **Extract and dispose of sewage:** Remove liquids, solids, and contaminants * **Decontaminate surfaces:** Sanitize all surfaces that came into contact with sewage * **Air purification:** Eliminate airborne pollutants and odors * **Restore property:** Repair and restore affected areas to pre-incident condition By utilizing the services of a professional Sewage Cleanup Service, individuals can mitigate health risks and prevent the spread of harmful microorganisms.