Frit-Happens !

Lampwork => Common Problems => Topic started by: SuefromYorkshire on June 21, 2009, 11:37:44 AM

Title: Sore Throat problem
Post by: SuefromYorkshire on June 21, 2009, 11:37:44 AM
Is it just me or does anybody else get a sore throat from making glass beads?

This is what I'm putting it down to - spending too long in a session in my little bead shed! :(

Also I know you are suppose to wear a mask when melting silver but I try to hold my breath (don't know if that works) and I have been using lots of silver foil on my beads recently could it be that?

Just wondered if anybody might know as I'm a bit worried I'm doing something to my health :-\
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: hollergrafik on June 21, 2009, 11:41:01 AM
Do you have ventilation? holding your breath isnt going to do anything as its all in the air and needs venting out. I used to cough til I got my ventilation.
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: Pam on June 21, 2009, 11:41:27 AM
I take it you do have some sort of extraction fan!
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: SuefromYorkshire on June 21, 2009, 11:54:30 AM
Yes, I have an extractor fan and I have the door open about 6".
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: Annelyse on June 21, 2009, 12:13:25 PM
I used to have a sore throat. I upgraded my fan to a superpowerful one and I don't get a sore throat anymore (and I also feel generally better). So, it is  possible that your ventilation is not enough.
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: Annelyse on June 21, 2009, 12:17:19 PM
I forgot to say:

You have to be careful with silver but I think I remember reading somewhere that the biggest problem is nitrogen dioxyde which is a combustion by product and an irritant.

Please correct me if I am wrong...
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: flaming beads on June 21, 2009, 12:22:54 PM
mmm...i get a sore throat too! and thinking about it, i had possibly noticed this more after using silver foil and wire! must get a fan but have my window open for now. i do however, sometimes wear a mask...when i remember:-(
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: SuefromYorkshire on June 21, 2009, 12:42:26 PM
Thank you for your help, I feel now that I was right about the silver and should get more ventilation !!!
Thanks again for being there to help! :)
Title: Re: Sore Throat problem
Post by: Billie on June 21, 2009, 12:55:15 PM
Only when I realise I've been sat at my torch for 3 or 4 hours and have 1) forgotten to take in a large glass of water with me so I can have a drink or, 2) forgotten I have taken in a large glass of water with me and don't have a drink :D