Pepper spray, also called OC spray or oleoresin capsicum spray, is a lachrymatory agent used mainly for self-defense and riot control. Its capsaicin causes an intense burning sensation when it contacts the skin and mucous membranes.
Inhalation of pepper spray, purposefully or otherwise, can cause grave health implications despite being considered a non-deadly means of defense. This whole article will look at what happens if you inhale pepper spray.
Immediate Effects of Inhaling Pepper Spray
Inhaling pepper spray causes immediate and severe effects on the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. The capsaicin binds to pain receptors present on sensory nerves, triggering the following responses:
Burning Sensation
Pepper spray causes an intense burning sensation in the nose, throat, and lungs within seconds of inhalation. This is due to capsaicin binding directly to transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) receptors, which transmit pain sensations from noxious stimuli. The burning can make it extremely difficult to breathe.
Excess Mucus Production
Exposure to pepper spray irritates and inflames the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and lungs. This triggers excessive mucus production as the body tries to trap and expel the irritant particles. Copious amounts of mucus can cause coughing, choking, and difficulty breathing.
Closing of the Airways
Exposure to pepper spray particles rapidly constricts the airways, causing bronchospasm, shortness of breath, wheezing, and gasping for air. The throat can also swell massively, further narrowing the airways.
Inflammation
In addition to burning, pepper spray causes respiratory tract inflammation, including the nasal cavity, throat, trachea, and lungs. This leads to redness, swelling, and fluid accumulation, making breathing difficult. The inflammatory response may persist for hours after exposure.
Risks and Complications
Inhaling pepper spray poses several risks and can cause dangerous complications such as:
Asphyxiation
The severe inflammation and constriction of the airways can obstruct breathing, resulting in asphyxiation. This risk is greater in those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis. Asphyxiation can occur within minutes.
Respiratory Distress
Pepper spray inhalation can rapidly lead to respiratory distress characterized by increased effort required for breathing, gasping for air, blue discoloration of skin, altered mental status, and low oxygen levels – requiring emergency intubation and ventilation.
Aspiration Pneumonia
Inhaling pepper spray can cause choking and vomiting. If stomach contents are aspirated into the lungs, chemical pneumonia can result. This is a severe condition requiring hospitalization.
Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS)
Also known as irritant-induced asthma, RADS is a risk following significant exposure to pepper spray. It causes asthma-like symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath that may persist for years after the exposure.
Respiratory Failure
The swelling and accumulation of fluid in the airways and lungs impair oxygen exchange, resulting in respiratory failure – an often fatal condition unless urgently treated. Mechanical ventilation may be required.
Long-Term Lung Damage
Studies show that a single exposure to high doses of pepper spray causes long-term lung damage and permanent respiratory disability in some individuals – especially those with underlying lung disease.
First Aid for Pepper Spray Inhalation
Before emergency treatment, follow these first aid steps:
- Get the person into fresh air quickly. Open doors and windows wide.
- Have them sit upright and lean forward to allow mucus and fluids to drain from the airways.
- Loosen tight clothing and offer cool water if the person is alert.
- Flush nose and mouth thoroughly with cool, clean water.
- Cover the mouth and nose with a dry cloth and have them breathe slowly into it.
- Use a bronchodilator inhaler if prescribed.
- Call for medical assistance and emergency help if needed regarding pepper spray inhalation if needed.
- Be prepared to provide CPR and anti-choking first aid if breathing stops.
- Keep the person under observation until emergency medical care arrives.
