Chemical agents that attack lung tissue, primarily causing fluid
buildup (pulmonary edema), are classified as choking agents (lung-damaging
agents). This group includes phosgene (CG), diaphosgene (DP),
chlorine (CL), and chloropicrin (PS). Of these four agents, phosgene
is the most dangerous and is more likely to be employed by the
enemy in future conflict.
a. Protective Measures. Your protective mask gives adequate
protection against choking agents.
b. Signs/Symptoms. During and immediately after exposure
to choking agents (depending on agent concentration and length of exposure), you may experience some or all of the following
signs/symptoms:
- Tears (lacrimation).
- Dry throat.
- Coughing.
- Choking.
- Tightness of chest.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Headaches.
c. First Aid Measures.
(1) If you come in contact with phosgene, your eyes become irritated,
or a cigarette becomes tasteless or offensive, STOP BREATHING
and put on your mask immediately.
(2) If vomiting occurs, the mask should be lifted momentarily
and drained--while the eyes are closed and the breath is held--replaced,
cleared, and sealed.
(3) Seek medical assistance if any of the above signs/symptoms
occur.
NOTE
If you have no difficulty breathing, do not feel nauseated,
and have no more than the
usual shortness of breath on exertion,
then you inhaled only a minimum amount of the
agent. You may continue
normal duties.
d. Death. With ordinary field exposure to choking agents,
death will probably not occur. However, prolonged exposure to
high concentrations of the vapor and neglect or delay in masking
can be fatal.
|
