What are the immediate physiological effects the exposed person typically experiences?

• A. Eye burning and tearing, facial and throat irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, and temporary disorientation
• B. Nausea and vomiting
• C. Itching only
• D. No symptoms

Answer: (A)

OC spray acts as a potent irritant on the eyes and airway, so the immediate reactions are driven by mucous membrane irritation. The most common immediate effects are eye burning and tearing, facial and throat irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, and a temporary sense of disorientation from the sudden distress and breathing difficulty. These symptoms appear quickly after exposure and reflect how the irritant inflames the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Nausea and vomiting, itching alone, or no symptoms don’t fit the typical quick reaction profile, which is why the described set of effects is the best answer.