Potential Effects of Ammonia Exposure

Ammonia is a combination of nitrogen and hydrogen, and an important source of nitrogen for living cells in both plants and animals. It is found in numerous medications and in fertilizers. Ammonia is also clear and colorless, either as a gas or a liquid. However, as important as ammonia is, it can also be highly dangerous in high doses or when mixed with some chemicals.

Numerous potential effects of ammonia exposure can create both short-term and long-term implications for health. Talk to the team of Texas toxic chemical exposure lawyers at The Doan Law Firm today at a free consultation.

Potential Effects of High-Level Ammonia Exposure

Normal exposure to ammonia in the environment does not create negative health effects in most people. However, in high concentrations, it can cause damage to the skin, eyes, lungs, and throat, even creating a high risk of death if a person suffers extremely high exposure. Most people will smell a strong, rotting-fish odor, or they may feel skin irritation if they come into direct contact with it.

The severity of injuries and damage depends on the concentration of ammonia and the duration of exposure. The following are some of the most common signs of higher-level exposure that could be dangerous:

• Stomach pain and digestive discomfort sometimes resulting in nausea and vomiting
• Throat irritation causing coughing, sometimes involving the production of white or pink-colored fluid
• Narrowing of the throat and swelling that can feel like it is hard to breathe
• Skin irritation, blistering, and pain
• Permanent or temporary loss of vision
• Burning of the eyes, lungs, throat, and nose
• Frostbite development for those who come into contact with the liquefied form

Ammonia exposure can occur in many ways, including through skin and eye contact when the chemical disperses into the air. It can also be consumed if ammonia is in water. It may also be present in high levels in some foods, which can lead to gastrointestinal concerns, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Long-Term Effects of Ammonia Exposure

Most exposures do not create long-term effects. Most people will heal from minor damage to the skin and tissues. However, complications occur in high doses and with long-term exposure. The complications faced depend on the type of exposure.

If you inhale a large amount of ammonia, it can cause significant respiratory damage, including damage to lung tissue. This can impact lung function over time.

For those with high-concentration ammonia exposure to their eyes, the risk of ulcers forming is high. Some may also develop perforations, or holes, in the eye. In these situations, some may heal, while others may go blind. Cataracts and glaucoma may also develop over time.

If a person experiences repeated, long-term exposure to ammonia, such as in a workplace setting, the risks center on respiratory tract distress. This can include the development of:

• Asthma
• Chronic coughing
• Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome
• Lung fibrosis
• Eye and skin irritation and scarring

Those with any of these types of damage may not heal fully. It becomes necessary to seek support from a medical care team and potentially an attorney.

Turn to an Attorney for Guidance on Your Rights

The potential effects of ammonia exposure can be high, especially in workplace exposures. If you suffer any of these or other long-term effects, speak to an attorney about your rights. Call The Doan Law Firm today for a free consultation.