What effect would ammonia fumes have on an infant?

Ammonia fumes can have several adverse effects on infants, including:

1. Respiratory Irritation: Ammonia fumes are strong irritants that can cause inflammation of the delicate respiratory system of an infant. This can lead to coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath.

2. Eye Irritation: Ammonia fumes can cause severe irritation to the eyes, leading to redness, watering, burning sensation, and pain. In severe cases, it can even cause corneal damage and vision impairment.

3. Skin Irritation: Exposure to ammonia fumes can also cause skin irritation, such as redness, itching, burning sensation, and blisters. Infants have thinner and more sensitive skin, making them more susceptible to such irritations.

4. Neurological Effects: Ammonia fumes can have neurotoxic effects on infants. High levels of ammonia exposure can cause drowsiness, lethargy, confusion, seizures, and even coma.

5. Respiratory Infections: Ammonia fumes can weaken the immune system, making infants more vulnerable to respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and tracheitis.

6. Delayed Development: Prolonged or high-level exposure to ammonia fumes during infancy has been linked to developmental delays, including cognitive impairments and growth retardation.

7. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Although the exact relationship is not fully understood, there is some evidence suggesting a potential link between ammonia exposure and SIDS. Research has shown that infants who died from SIDS had higher levels of ammonia in their blood or urine compared to healthy infants.

It's crucial to avoid exposing infants to ammonia fumes and ensure proper ventilation in areas where ammonia is used or stored. If you suspect that your infant has been exposed to ammonia fumes, seek immediate medical attention.