Pepper spray, often referred to as OC spray, is a non-lethal aerosol designed to temporarily incapacitate a person through intense irritation. Its active ingredient is Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), an oily extract derived from chili peppers that contains capsaicinoids, the same compounds that give peppers their heat. When inhaled, these fine particles instantly inflame the mucous membranes lining the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. The resulting sensation is one of severe, immediate burning and intense inflammation in the airways, causing involuntary coughing and a feeling of breathlessness.
Immediate First Steps After Exposure
The moment inhalation occurs, the priority is to immediately separate yourself from the source of the irritant. Pepper spray particles can linger in the air, so quickly moving to a location with fresh air, ideally outdoors and upwind, helps prevent further exposure and worsening symptoms. Once you are in a safe, uncontaminated area, minimize physical exertion. Strenuous activity increases your body’s oxygen demand and can intensify the feeling of shortness of breath.
Panic can lead to rapid, shallow breathing, which is counterproductive and may cause hyperventilation. The involuntary response to the spray will cause significant mucus and saliva production as the body attempts to flush out the irritant. Gently blow your nose and spit out excess saliva to clear the capsaicinoid residue from your nasal and oral passages.
Contaminated clothing can continue to release the irritant, so removing any garments that were directly sprayed is necessary to prevent re-exposure. If possible, cut the clothing off rather than pulling it over your head to avoid dragging the chemical across your face and eyes again.
Techniques for Managing Respiratory Distress
Once in a safe environment, attention should turn to managing the intense airway constriction and coughing fits caused by the inflammatory agent. The frightening sensation of being unable to breathe is typically a temporary spasm of the airways and vocal cords, rather than a physical obstruction. Focusing on controlled, slow breathing helps to counteract the body’s natural panic response.
A technique like pursed-lip breathing can be particularly helpful for maximizing oxygen intake and reducing the severity of coughing. To do this, sit upright and inhale slowly through your nose, then exhale very slowly through pursed lips, as if you are gently blowing out a candle. This controlled exhalation helps to keep the airways open longer, reducing the likelihood of a severe coughing spasm. Sipping cool water slowly can also help soothe the burning sensation in the throat and minimize continued coughing.
The respiratory effects usually begin to subside within 20 to 30 minutes. Maintaining a calm, seated posture assists in the body’s natural recovery process.
External Decontamination of Skin and Eyes
Addressing the external residue is a necessary step because the oil-based capsaicin can prolong symptoms if left on the skin and eyes. The primary action for the eyes is immediate and continuous flushing with cool, clean water or saline solution for at least 15 minutes. The water stream should flow from the inner corner of the eye outward to avoid contaminating the unaffected eye or other areas of the face.
Avoid the urge to rub the eyes or skin, as this friction spreads the oil and forces the capsaicin deeper into the pores, intensifying the burning. For the skin, capsaicin’s oily nature means water alone is not fully effective, so a mild, oil-free soap is recommended to help break down the residue. Dish soap or baby shampoo, which are designed to cut grease or be non-irritating, work well for washing the affected areas.
When washing, use cool water, as warm or hot water can open pores, potentially allowing more capsaicin to absorb into the skin. Gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel after rinsing, never rubbing. Contaminated clothing should be sealed in a plastic bag and washed separately from other laundry using a strong detergent to fully remove the oily residue.
Identifying High-Risk Reactions and Medical Intervention
While the effects of pepper spray are often temporary, typically resolving within an hour, certain symptoms or pre-existing conditions necessitate immediate medical attention. If you experience prolonged or worsening shortness of breath, severe chest pain, or persistent wheezing that does not improve after 45 to 60 minutes, seek emergency care. An inability to speak, cyanosis (a bluish discoloration of the skin indicating low oxygen), or loss of consciousness are definitive reasons for an immediate hospital visit.
Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or severe allergies, are at a higher risk for serious complications. For these people, even a minor exposure can trigger a severe, life-threatening airway narrowing that requires professional bronchodilator treatment.
Any persistent eye pain, blurred vision, or symptoms that last longer than 24 hours should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to check for corneal abrasions or other lasting damage.