Gopalakrishnan P. Gopalakrishnan P. Asked 5 months ago

How long does metal fume fever last?

My colleague, who works with welding, has been feeling unwell and his doctor mentioned something called 'metal fume fever'. He's worried. How long does this condition typically last for someone exposed to such fumes?

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5 answers

Rajesh Chauhan Rajesh Chauhan Joined May 2026 5 months ago
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My occupational health physician explained that metal fume fever is a temporary condition. The symptoms like chills, fever, and muscle aches typically peak around 12 to 18 hours after exposure and resolve completely on their own within 24 to 48 hours.

Manpreet Singh Manpreet Singh Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

I got this last month after welding in a closed workshop without a proper mask. The shivering and fever started in the evening but luckily, by the second afternoon, I was completely back to normal. Just drink plenty of water and rest.

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Priya Dsouza Priya Dsouza Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago

Don't worry too much! It usually passes very quickly, mostly within 24 to 48 hours. Just make sure to get some fresh air and drink lots of fluids to feel better soon! ☀️

Nisha Deshmukh Nisha Deshmukh Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

I totally get it, having that sudden flu-like feeling out of nowhere can be really scary. The good news is that this fever is short-lived and almost always clears up within two days. Take complete rest today.

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Aniket Roy Aniket Roy Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I panicked like crazy the first time I got those chills after a heavy soldering session, thinking it was severe malaria or something. But it went away completely in 24 hours. Just stay away from the fumes and use proper ventilation next time.

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