The short answer
What Is in Sewage Fumes
Sewage fumes come from decomposing waste and carry a mix of gases and tiny particles. Hydrogen sulfide is a common one, and it gives sewage that rotten egg smell. Methane and ammonia can also be present. These gases can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat, and high levels of hydrogen sulfide can affect your nervous system.
In addition to gases, sewage fumes can contain airborne bacteria and viruses. When sewage backs up in your home, those microbes can become aerosolized, meaning they float in the air you breathe. For people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems, the risk is higher. Even healthy people can feel unwell after prolonged exposure.
Short-Term Health Effects
Short-term exposure to sewage fumes often causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye or throat irritation. You might also experience coughing or shortness of breath. These symptoms can appear quickly, especially in a small, enclosed space like a bathroom or basement. If you notice them, get to fresh air right away.
For most people, symptoms fade once you leave the area and get ventilation. But if symptoms persist or worsen, see a doctor. If you feel faint, have trouble breathing, or experience chest pain, that is a sign to seek medical help immediately. Do not try to tough it out.
- Headache and dizziness
- Nausea and upset stomach
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Coughing and shortness of breath
- Fatigue and confusion
Long-Term Risks and Vulnerable Groups
Long-term or repeated exposure to sewage fumes can lead to more serious health problems. Chronic exposure to hydrogen sulfide, even at low levels, has been linked to respiratory issues, memory problems, and damage to the nervous system. Children, older adults, and people with chronic lung conditions face greater risks.
Pregnant women should also avoid sewage fumes, as some studies suggest potential risks to fetal development. If your area has wet winters that can increase the chance of sewage backups, it is wise to know the signs and act quickly. Your health is more important than protecting belongings.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you smell sewage fumes indoors, leave the area and get fresh air. Open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation, and turn off any HVAC systems to prevent spreading fumes through the house. Do not use fans, as they can stir up contaminants. If the odor is strong or you feel unwell, step outside and call for help.
Avoid flushing toilets or running water if you suspect a sewage backup, as that can increase pressure and push more waste into your home. Keep children and pets away from the affected area. If you have a sewage backup, do not attempt to clean it yourself, as that can expose you to dangerous pathogens.
When to Bring in the Pros
Cleaning up sewage is not a do-it-yourself job. The pros have protective gear and specialized equipment to handle contaminated materials safely. They can remove sewage, sanitize surfaces, and dry out affected areas to prevent mold growth. Trying to handle it yourself risks your health and may not fully eliminate hazards.
If you have a sewage backup, contact local water damage pros as soon as you can. They can assess the situation, contain the spread, and perform a thorough cleanup. In this area, wet winters and dry summers mean moisture can linger, so proper drying is essential. Check your insurance policy to see what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Turn off HVAC to avoid spreading fumes
- Do not flush or run water if backup is suspected
- Keep children and pets away
- Ventilate only with open windows, not fans
- Call the pros for cleanup and sanitation
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for sewage fumes to affect you?
Symptoms can appear quickly, especially in small spaces. Headaches, nausea, and eye irritation are common. If you feel any of these, leave the area immediately and get fresh air. Prolonged exposure increases risk, so do not wait to see if symptoms go away.
Can sewage fumes make you sick even after the smell is gone?
Yes, because some gases and particles are odorless or linger after the smell fades. Also, porous materials like drywall and wood can absorb contaminants. Even if the air seems fine, surfaces may still harbor bacteria. Professional cleaning and drying are important to fully remove hazards.
Is it safe to stay in the house during sewage cleanup?
It depends on the extent of the backup and the ventilation. For small, contained issues, you might be able to stay in another part of the house. But for major backups, it is safer to leave until the pros finish. Follow their advice and keep windows open to help with airflow.