Ammonia Poisoning

Ammonia is a naturally occurring compound that can also be manufactured. When naturally occurring, it is present in decaying matter, but also in water, soil, and air. When manufactured, it is most often found in liquid form and has numerous industrial and household uses. It is commonly sold in liquid form and is a corrosive chemical.

Chemical Properties

The chemical formula for ammonia is NH₃. It is a colorless gas with a distinctive, unpleasant odor. It is a source of nitrogen for the living world, however in large amounts it can be quite toxic.

Uses

There are numerous uses for manufactured ammonia:

• Fertilizer
• Pesticides
• Explosives
• Synthetic fibers
• Cleaning products
• Fuel cells
• Industrial stabilizers
• Refrigerants
• Floor wax
• Smelling salts
• Rocket fuel
• Leather tanning

Toxicity

High levels of ammonia can be extremely harmful to human health. Toxic effects include:

• Eye, skin, throat irritation
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Laryngitis
• Chest pain
• Asthma
• Increased blood pressure
• Abdominal pain
• Lung fluid build-up
• Lung collapse
• Seizures
• Blindness