Sheetrock and asthma

Posted By  HFHS.MD.HSW on April 19, 1999 at 20:07:37
Topic Area: Childhood Disease
  My child has asthma. Is there any danger to her by exposing her to sheetrock dust during remodeling of her room? If so, could prolonged exposure to the finished product also cause more damage?

[HFHS.MD-HSW]

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Dear Rachel:
Sheetrock or plasterboard is predominantly composed of gypsum, inorganic calcium sulfate. It may contain other additives as well. I suggest you use the web to identify producers and obtain more information directly from them about plasterboard and then discuss the subject with your own pediatrician and/or a pediatric allergist. House dust is a complex material, which includes inorganic and organic components. Organic components, which include ubiquitous dust mites, may be highly allergenic for some sensitized children. Inorganic material, even that which is non-allergenic, may trigger coughing and discomfort. Some inorganic dust is directly toxic to the lungs. As a general principle, exposure to dust of all kinds should be minimized for a child with asthma. A durable, inert finished product, properly prepared, installed, coated, and maintained, is not likely to pose a significant problem.
This information is provided for educational purposes only. You should review everything with your pediatrician before proceeding further.
HFHS.MD.HSW
Key Words: dust, dust mites, gypsum, plasterboard, sheetrock