nitric acid fumes


nitric acid fumes

The vapors of nitric acid (HNO3). They are used in various chemical processes. Poisoning is produced by the action of the corrosive fumes on the respiratory tract.

Symptoms

Findings include choking, gasping, swelling of mucous membranes, tightness in the chest, pulmonary edema, cough, and shock. Symptoms may last for 1 week or more.

Treatment

The patient must be removed immediately from the fumes and good ventilation of the lungs maintained. Therapy is given for shock and pulmonary edema. Administration of oxygen under pressure using a mask may be required along with analgesics and anxiolytics as needed. Clothes must be removed if they are contaminated. Steroids may help diminish the inflammatory response of the lungs.

See also: fumes