Pulmonary edema may result. At very high concentrations, unconsciousness, convulsions, and cessation of respiration rapidly develop. Immediately remove the casualty from the contaminated atmosphere and administer assisted ventilation with oxygen, if possible. Ammonia a. Physical Properties. Ammonia is a colorless gas, soluble in water, with a pungent odor.
Liquid ammonia is a vesicant.
This gas has not been used in warfare but may be encountered in industrial accidents, bombings involving refrigeration plants, and holds of ships as a product of decomposing material. Exposure to high concentrations of ammonia produces prompt and violent irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. There may be spasm and edema of the glottis or necrosis of the laryngeal mucous membranes. Pulmonary edema may develop and may be complicated by bronchopneumonia. High concentrations produce violent, burning pain in the eyes and nose, lacrimation, sneezing, pain in the chest, cough, spasm of the glottis, and pulmonary edema.