Pathology and Pathophysiology Respiratory damage is related to various factors, including the solubility of the gas. The more soluble irritant gases cause severe burning and other manifestations of irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, trachea, and major bronchi. Marked cough, hemoptysis, wheezing, retching, and dyspnea are common. Their severity is generally dose-related. After heavy exposure, patchy or confluent alveolar consolidation may be seen on chest x-ray and usually indicates pulmonary edema.
Most persons recover fully from a heavy acute exposure.
Bacterial infections, common during the acute phase, are the most serious complications. Occasionally, heavy exposures lead to persistent but probably reversible airway obstruction, the so-called reactive airway dysfunction syndrome. Obstruction may persist for one or more years and then slowly resolve. Prophylaxis and Treatment Care in handling gases and chemicals is the most effective preventive measure. Treatment of heavy acute exposure is directed toward maintaining gas exchange and ensuring adequate oxygenation and alveolar ventilation.