The Effects of Pepper Spray & Tear Gas
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Pepper Spray and Tear Gas
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Tear gas is the common name for two manmade chemicals, CN and CS gas. Pepper spray, oleoresin capsicum, is made from a combination of peppers, including hot cayenne pepper.
Skin Irritants
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Both tear gas and pepper spray are skin irritants, causing a burning pain to affected areas and excess drainage from eyes, nose, mouth and lungs.
Nasal Effects
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Both tear gas and pepper spray can cause excess sneezing and mucus secretion. An excessively running nose usually follows exposure to both chemicals.
Respiration
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Pepper spray and tear gas can cause a dry cough, involuntary gagging and wheezing. Burning can be felt in the throat, causing difficulty breathing and speaking.
Eyes
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Both pepper spray and tear gas cause reddening, swelling and a stinging sensation in the eyes. Pepper spray can cause involuntary closing of the eyelids.
Time of Effects
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Tear gas effects last for a shorter time than pepper spray, usually from five to 30 minutes. The effects of pepper spray last for a longer period, anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours.
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