I think I inhaled lye fumes ... do I need hospital ?

[boyago]

It sounds more like a reaction something in the soap. Did you use any FOs or EOs? You may have exposed yourself to something in a higher concentration than you have run into before and are reacting to that.
Also if you are having trouble breathing call a Dr! If you are seriously afraid you have a chemical burn in your lungs there are things that can be done to help it heal properly.

 

[lillybella]

What do people do - wear a respirator, work outside?

 

[Susie]

I can't tell you what the problem is, but I can tell you what it is not...lye.

I mix my soap on the stove with the vent hood running. Period. I use common sense and do not stick my face in the bowl and inhale. That is all the respiratory precautions I use.

 

[Cindy2428]

I use disposable cheap paint respirator masks sec to self-inflicted COPD from long-term cigarette smoking habit. Haven't had a problem.

 

[shunt2011]

I just keep my head turned away and either keep the fan over the stove on or crack open a window. Within a minute or so the fumes are gone.

 

[JayBird]

Just my opinion, but working outside is more difficult. You don't control the temperature nor humidity, and a breeze can make your ingredients mist about while pouring. And if you spill something on the ground, animals and kids might touch it. I prefer a controlled environment indoors, with ventilation. Sometimes the cook smell makes me feel a little quesy, but I'm very sensitive to any odor.

 

[Lindy]

I fourth or whatever the no lye fumes at that point. When you mix your lye you will see steam coming off the mixture, that contains the lye fumes.

 

[lillybella]

Thank you ALL.
I have a respirator; so I'm prepared.
I'm just a baby!
All this scared me.

 

[AnnaMarie]

I wouldn't worry too much unless the coughing starts happening on a regular basis. If I'm reading correctly it, just happened the one time. If the problem is lye you won't miss it- guaranteed! The reaction is a rather violent one, and you won't forget it. I understand being nervous though.
Anna Marie

 

[reinbeau]

Just my opinion, but working outside is more difficult. You don't control the temperature nor humidity, and a breeze can make your ingredients mist about while pouring. And if you spill something on the ground, animals and kids might touch it. I prefer a controlled environment indoors, with ventilation. Sometimes the cook smell makes me feel a little quesy, but I'm very sensitive to any odor.

Not to mention having to walk all over the place with a lye container. I think it's fraught with more danger than just mixing at the counter with a fan and then adding to your oils.