From frying pans to muffin tins and saucepans – you can get nonstick surfaces on just about any type of cookware. However, did you know that the nonstick coating can make some people ill?
In 2023, 267 reports of suspected polymer fume fever or “Teflon flu” were reported to U.S. Poison Centers, triple the annual number in previous years. In 2019, 79 cases were reported. Similar reports have been reported since 2011, and they are increasing in frequency.
The 267 cases were not all confirmed, and not all patients reported symptoms. Some patients may have been exposed to chemicals at work.
The disorder is called polymer fume fever since the polymers that make up the nonstick coatings typically come from polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), which prevents foods from sticking to a pan. According to the National Institutes of Health, this material can break down into tiny particles at normal cooking temperatures, releasing toxic gases and chemicals.
The Poison Center explains that Teflon flu is caused by inhaling the fumes from burning products, including PTFE. Symptoms include:
- headaches
- fever
- shivering or chills
- unpleasant taste
- thirst
- coughing
- nausea
- weakness
- muscle aches or cramps
Symptoms of Teflon flu can last one to two days.
How can you prevent polymer fume fever?
Whether in your work environment or at home, these safety principles while working with fumes can help avoid illnesses:
Ventilation and Air Filtration: Use exhaust fans, open windows, or operate air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to lessen indoor air pollution and facilitate the removal of airborne contaminants. Avoid using abrasive cleaning methods (such as using steel wool or metal scouring pads) that produce airborne particles.
Material Selection for Safer Alternatives: Opt for low-emission materials and products with reduced metal content when possible. Choose water-based or low-VOC (volatile organic compound) cleaning agents and coatings to minimize exposure to toxic substances. Choose environmentally friendly and low-emission options for consumer goods whenever doable.
For metal and polymer fume exposures, most of the symptoms of Teflon flu will resolve in 24 to 48 hours. If you or someone you know has been exposed to metal fumes or polymer fumes and are experiencing either metal fume fever or polymer fume fever, follow these steps:
- Move away from the source causing the fumes.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help manage fever and body aches.