How dangerous are tear gas shells? How it affects the eyes to the lungs, know how to avoid it

Ahmedabad: During the recent protests in Delhi, the police used tear gas shells to control the crowd. Several videos surfaced on social media in which protesters were seen suffering from burning eyes, coughing and difficulty breathing. Then the question arises, what is tear gas really? Does it just bring tears to the eyes or can it have more serious effects on the body?

Tear gas is not really gas
From the name it may seem that tear gas would be a type of gas, but in fact it is not. In most cases it is a chemical compound, which is released into the air in the form of very fine particles or aerosols. These particles initiate acute irritation upon contact with eyes, nose, mouth and skin moisture.

Why is it used?
Police and security forces use tear gas to disperse crowds, control violent situations, or maintain law and order. Its purpose is not to cause permanent injury, but to force people to leave the place.

What is tear gas canister?
Tear gas canisters usually contain a chemical called CS (2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile). CN (Chloroacetophenone) or Oleoresin Capsicum (an extract from chillies) is also used in some situations.
When the sphere is released, the chemical inside it heats up and disperses into the air in the form of very fine particles, which begin to have an effect on contact.

How does it affect the body?
Several symptoms can occur within seconds of exposure to tear gas.
• Severe irritation and persistent watering of eyes • Difficulty opening and redness of eyes • Runny nose and persistent sneezing • Sore throat and cough • Shortness of breath or chest tightness • Irritation, redness and itching of skin

In most healthy people, these symptoms subside after a while. But for some people this condition can be serious.
Who is most at risk?
The effects of tear gas can be more severe in the following people.
• Asthma patients • People with COPD or other lung disease • Heart disease patients • Young children • Elderly • Pregnant women
Such people may develop severe breathing problems, asthma attacks or conditions requiring immediate treatment.

What can happen if there is prolonged contact?
If a person is exposed to tear gas in a confined space for a long time, the risk of serious complications may increase.
• Serious eye damage • Injury to the cornea • Risk of glaucoma or cataracts • Long-term breathing problems • Severe skin allergies or burns

What to do immediately if exposed to tear gas?
If exposed to tear gas, do not panic and take the following steps immediately.
• Immediately move to an open and fresh air area. • Flush eyes continuously with clean water for 10 to 15 minutes. • Do not rub the eyes at all, as this may increase the irritation. • If chemical is on clothing, remove clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. • If wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately and do not reuse them. • In case of severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, unconsciousness or severe asthma attack, get to the nearest hospital without delay.

What do the experts say?
According to health experts, the effects of tear gas are temporary in most people and wear off over time. However, it can prove serious for people with pre-existing respiratory or heart-related illnesses. So it is very important to be careful in such a situation and seek immediate medical treatment if needed.