Al-Shami K, Almurabi S, Shatnawi J, Qasagsah K, Shatnawi G, Nashwan AJ. Ophthalmic Manifestations of Chlorine Gas Exposure: What Do We Know So Far?
Cureus 2023;
15:e35590. [PMID:
37007383 PMCID:
PMC10062433 DOI:
10.7759/cureus.35590]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlorine gas is a hazardous substance that can cause severe health effects when inhaled or exposed to the skin. It is an odorless, colorless gas in many industrial and manufacturing settings and conflict areas. While exposure to chlorine gas is generally limited to the workplace and public areas, there are instances in which people may be exposed to high levels of chlorine gas for a short period of time due to spills, mishaps on the road or railroads, or other tragedies. In addition to the general health effects of chlorine gas, this essay will focus on the effects of chlorine gas on the eyes. The eyes are particularly sensitive to chlorine gas, and exposure can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild irritation to severe damage. Symptoms of chlorine gas exposure to the eyes include redness, burning, tearing, and blurred vision. In more serious cases, exposure to chlorine gas can cause permanent damage to the eyes, including corneal ulcers, scarring, and blindness. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of chlorine gas exposure and the potential long-term effects to take the necessary steps to protect oneself. In addition to the potential health effects, it is important to understand the properties of chlorine gas. Chlorine gas is heavier than air and tends to settle in low-lying areas. It is highly reactive and can react with other substances to form hazardous compounds. As such, it is important to be aware of the potential for chlorine gas to react with other environmental substances and accumulate in certain areas. Finally, it is important to understand the background of chlorine gas use in various conflict areas. Chlorine gas has been used as a chemical weapon for centuries, and its use in modern warfare has been documented in various conflicts. As such, it is important to be aware of the potential for chlorine gas to be used in war zones and to take the necessary precautions to protect oneself. In conclusion, chlorine gas is a hazardous substance that can cause severe health effects when inhaled or exposed to the skin. The eyes are particularly sensitive to chlorine gas, and exposure can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild irritation to severe damage. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of chlorine gas exposure and the potential long-term effects to take the necessary steps to protect oneself. Additionally, it is important to understand chlorine gas's properties and its background use in various conflict areas.
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