Soman nerve gas poisoning
Soman Nerve Gas Poisoning - Health Risks and Symptoms
Soman nerve gas is an extremely toxic colorless, odorless liquid chemical which can cause massive systemic neurological damage as well as death. It is categorized as a nerve agent, a type of chemical warfare agent, which can be dispersed as a vapor, liquid, or aerosol. Soman can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, vomiting, and death. It acts by inhibiting the body's enzyme responsible for the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Health risks associated with Soman exposure include difficulty breathing, impaired vision, loss of balance, headaches, nausea, confusion, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and death. People exposed to Soman may develop chronic neurological and respiratory illnesses, including vision and balance problems and memory problems.
The most common symptoms of Soman poisoning include dryness in the throat, chest pains, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
Other signs and symptoms of Soman poisoning may include:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Stupor
- Muscle twitching
- Cyanosis
The medical treatment for Soman poisoning includes the administration of drugs such as atropine sulfate and pralidoxime chloride, which act as antidotes against the nerve agent. It is important to note that treatment should be started as soon as possible after potential exposure to increase the chances of successful treatment.