Pepper spray, also known as oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, is a non-lethal chemical agent derived from the capsaicinoids found in chili peppers. The active ingredient, capsaicin, is responsible for the intense burning sensation experienced upon exposure. This oil-based solution is designed to cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, leading to temporary incapacitation. Immediate and proper removal of pepper spray is important to minimize discomfort and prevent prolonged symptoms.
Initial Actions After Exposure
Immediately following pepper spray exposure, the primary step is to move to fresh air away from the contaminated area. Staying calm is important, as panicking can intensify irritation. Avoid touching or rubbing affected skin or eyes, as this spreads the oil-based irritant and can drive capsaicin deeper into the skin.
Rapidly blinking helps encourage tear production, flushing the chemical from the eyes. Removing contaminated clothing promptly prevents re-contamination of the skin. If possible, cut off clothing rather than pulling it over the head to avoid further irritation to the eyes and face. Placing contaminated items in a plastic bag can help isolate the irritant.
Effective Washing Techniques
Effective removal of oil-based capsaicin requires a systematic approach. For skin exposure, flush the area with plenty of cool water for at least 15 minutes. Cool water soothes the burning sensation and prevents pores from opening, which hot water would do, potentially increasing absorption. After initial flushing, gently cleanse the skin with a mild, non-oil-based soap or baby shampoo, as soap helps break down the oils. Blot the skin dry rather than rubbing to avoid further irritation.
For eye exposure, continuously flush with cool water or a sterile saline solution for at least 15 minutes. While flushing, keep eyelids open and blink frequently to wash out the pepper spray. If wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately and discard them, as they can trap the spray residue. Avoid using soap directly in the eyes as it can be an irritant.
When handling contaminated clothing, wear rubber or plastic gloves to protect your hands. Wash the contaminated items separately from other laundry using cold water and a heavy-duty laundry detergent. It may require multiple wash cycles to fully remove the capsaicin oils. After washing, run an empty wash cycle with hot water and detergent to clean any lingering residue from the washing machine.
Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Exposure to pepper spray typically results in immediate and intense symptoms. Common reactions include a severe burning sensation in the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. This can lead to involuntary eye closure, profuse tearing, temporary blindness, coughing, and shortness of breath. The acute burning pain and respiratory effects usually peak within 5 to 15 minutes and often resolve within 20 to 30 minutes, though some effects can last up to an hour or even several hours if not properly decontaminated.
While most individuals recover from pepper spray exposure without lasting complications, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Seek medical care if experiencing persistent breathing difficulties, such as severe wheezing or an inability to breathe properly, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. Medical help is also needed for severe allergic reactions, which might include swollen lips, hives, or skin blistering. Persistent eye pain, prolonged vision impairment, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve after initial decontamination, also indicate a need for professional medical evaluation.