The gas is a powerful irritant to the airways, eyes and skin. Depending on the time and level of exposure, effects ranging from mild irritation to severe bodily injury may occur. Inhalation can cause breathing difficulties, bronchospasm, burning of the nasal mucosa, pharynx and larynx, chest pain and pulmonary edema. Ingestion causes nausea, vomiting and swelling of the lips, mouth and larynx. Ammonia produces, in contact with the skin, pain, erythema and vesiculation. In high concentrations, there may be tissue necrosis and deep burns. Contact with eyes in low concentrations (10 ppm) results in eye irritation and tearing. In the case of even higher concentrations, there may be conjunctivitis, corneal erosion and temporary or permanent blindness. Late reactions can happen, such as pulmonary fibrosis, cataracts and retinal atrophy.
Ammonia is a dangerous chemical, corrosive to the skin, eyes, upper airways and lungs. If inhaled, it can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, choking and burning the upper airways. Ammonia has an NH3 formula and is a very toxic gas.
