TEAR GASES EXPOSURE

Overview and Facts

Tear gases exposure may be an unpleasant and sometimes dangerous experience. Tear gas is a chemical mixture that causes cutaneous, respiratory, and ocular discomfort. Grenades, canisters, or pressured sprays often deliver it.

Tear gas, despite its name, is not a gas. When used, it produces a mist of compressed powder. 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS gas) is the most often utilized kind of tear gas.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

Some of the potential adverse effects of tear gas exposure include:

Eye Symptoms

You may suffer the following eye symptoms immediately after being exposed to tear gas:

  • Involuntary closing of eyelids
  • Burning
  • Blurry vision
  • Tearing
  • Itching
  • Temporary blindness

Close-range or long-term exposure may result in the following:

  • Hemorrhages
  • Cataracts
  • Blindness
  • Nerve damage
  • Corneal erosion

Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Symptoms

Among the symptoms are:

  • Itching and burning of the throat and nose
  • Coughing
  • Chest tightness
  • Vomiting
  • Respiratory failure
  • Choking
  • Trouble breathing
  • Salivating
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

In some cases, exposure to high concentrations of tear gas, especially in restricted locations or for an extended time, may result in death.

Skin Symptoms

Tear gas may cause discomfort and pain when it comes into contact with exposed skin. In extreme situations, the itching might continue for days. Other signs and symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Allergic dermatitis
  • Itching
  • Blisters
  • Chemical burns

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Tear gases exposure is often diagnosed and treated by evaluating symptoms and giving supportive care to relieve pain and promote recovery. Here’s an outline of the process:

  • Medical history: The healthcare practitioner will ask about your tear gases exposure, the length of your exposure, and any pre-existing medical issues that may have affected your reaction to the exposure.
  • Physical examination: To determine the severity of discomfort and any apparent evidence of tear gas exposure, your healthcare professional will check your respiratory system, skin, and eyes.

TREATMENT

Because there is no antidote for tear gases exposure, treatment is based on addressing individual symptoms.

After exposure to tear gas, you ought to seek fresh air and escape the source. Because tear gas vapor descends to the ground, it’s best to seek high ground if feasible.

It’s also an excellent idea to wash any contaminated clothes and bathe with water and soap to clean the vapors off of your body.

You may clean your eyes with water until the tear gas is gone.

  • ocular frailty on rare cases

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