It is also used as a refrigerant and in the manufacture of plastics, explosives, pesticides, and other chemicals. It is found in many household and industrial-strength cleaning solutions. Most exposures to ammonia are by breathing the gas. Even with very short or low-level exposures, most people will notice the pungent odor and experience burning of the eyes, nose, and throat. With higher doses, coughing or choking may occur.
Severe exposure can cause death from throat swelling or from chemical burns to the lungs.
Skin contact with ammonia containing liquids may cause burns. Contact with rapidly escaping ammonia gas from a leaking pressurized cylinder can cause frostbite injury. Eye exposure to concentrated gas or liquid can cause serious corneal burns or blindness. Drinking a concentrated ammonia solution can cause burns to the mouth, throat, and stomach. There is no antidote for ammonia poisoning, but its effects can be treated and most people do recover fully.