Explained | What is tear gas – Types, symptoms, prevention & treatment
PTC News Desk: The farmers' protest at the Shambhu border persisted into its second day on Wednesday, with Haryana security personnel deployed tear gas shells, prompting farmers to take precautions with water bottles, wet clothes, and protective gear.
As tensions rose at Shambhu border, here is all you need to know about tear gas
Tear gas, also known as riot control agents (RCAs) or lachrymatory agents, is a chemical compound used for crowd control and law enforcement purposes. It is typically dispersed in the form of aerosolized particles or canisters, which release the compound into the air. Common lachrymators both currently and formerly used as tear gas include pepper spray (OC gas), PAVA spray (nonivamide), CS gas, CR gas, CN gas (phenacyl chloride), bromoacetone, xylyl bromide and Mace (a branded mixture).
Tear gas, also known as riot control agents (RCAs) or lachrymatory agents, comes in various types :
CS Gas (2-Chlorobenzalmalononitrile): CS gas is one of the most widely used tear gases. It is a white, crystalline powder that is dispersed in aerosolized form or in canisters
CN Gas (Chloroacetophenone): CN gas was one of the first tear gases developed and used for riot control. It is a chemical compound that causes irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat
OC Spray (Oleoresin Capsicum): OC spray, commonly known as pepper spray, is derived from chili peppers and contains capsaicinoids which causes intense burning and irritation to the eyes, nose, and skin
CR Gas (Dibenzoxazepine): CR gas is a less common tear gas agent that causes irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as skin irritation upon contact.
PAVA (Pelargonic Acid Vanillylamide): PAVA is a synthetic compound that is similar in effect to OC spray
The chemical compound used for crowd control can pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable individuals or in cases of misuse or overexposure
Eye Symptoms | Skin Symptoms |
Irritation in eyes | Skin irritation |
Burning in eyes | Redness |
Redness and pain in eyes | Itching |
Temporary blindness | Burning sensation on the skin |
Blurry vision |
Other symptoms includes nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort after exposure to tear gas
Move to Fresh Air
The first step is to move away from the area where tear gas was deployed to minimize further exposure. Seek fresh air outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Cover yourself as much as you can
Wear appropriate protective gear, such as goggles or a gas mask; wear layers of clothes to cover your skin as much as you can
Use of Anticholinergics
Anticholinergics can function similarly to certain antihistamines by decreasing lacrimation (tearing) and reducing salivation, acting as an antisialagogue. They may also alleviate nose discomfort associated with allergic reactions, such as itching, runny nose, and sneezing.
Wash Exposed Skin
Wash any exposed skin with soap and water to remove traces of tear gas. Avoid rubbing the skin, as this may spread the irritant further.
Home remedies solutions such as vinegar, petroleum jelly, vegetable oil, milk, and lemon juice vinegar can help alleviate the burning sensation caused by pepper spray.
Meanwhile, applying baking soda and toothpaste can also help to neutralize the effects of tear gas
(With inputs from agencies)
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