Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, commonly known as pepper spray, is a non-lethal self-defense tool. Its primary effect stems from capsaicin, the active ingredient derived from chili peppers, which causes an intense burning sensation upon contact with mucous membranes like the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. This discomfort can include temporary blindness, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of being “set alight.” This guide provides immediate steps to alleviate the burning and discomfort following exposure to OC spray.
Immediate Steps for Relief
Upon exposure to OC spray, first move away from the contaminated area and seek fresh air. This minimizes continued inhalation of the irritant and reduces respiratory distress. If outdoors, moving to an area with a breeze can aid in dispersing airborne particles.
Once in a safer environment, continuously flush all affected areas with cool, clean water. For eye exposure, hold the eyes open under a gentle flow of cool water for at least 15 minutes, allowing the water to drain from the inner corner outwards. Repeated blinking can also help the eyes naturally flush out the irritant. If wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately with clean fingers and dispose of them, as they can trap the spray residue.
Carefully remove any clothing that may have come into contact with the spray. This prevents re-contamination of unaffected skin areas and can significantly reduce the duration of symptoms. If possible, cut off clothing rather than pulling it over the head to avoid further spreading the irritant to the face or eyes. After removing clothing, gently wash the affected skin with a mild, non-oil-based soap and cool water, as pepper spray is oil-based and water alone may not fully remove it.
Actions to Avoid
Resist the urge to rub affected eyes or skin after OC spray exposure. Rubbing can spread the capsaicin to unaffected areas and further embed it into the skin, intensifying the burning sensation and potentially causing corneal abrasions.
Avoid using oil-based products, such as lotions, Vaseline, or certain soaps, on the affected skin. Capsaicin is an oily substance, and oil-based products can trap the irritant, preventing its removal and prolonging the burning discomfort. Similarly, do not use hot water for flushing or washing. Hot water opens the skin’s pores, which can allow the capsaicin to penetrate deeper into the skin and intensify the burning sensation.
Do not re-contaminate yourself or others. Avoid touching contaminated clothing or surfaces and then touching unaffected body parts, as the oily residue can easily transfer. Isolate contaminated items in a plastic bag if immediate washing is not possible.
When to Seek Professional Medical Help
While the effects of OC spray are temporary and resolve within 30 minutes to a few hours, certain symptoms warrant professional medical attention. If intense burning, irritation, or respiratory issues persist for several hours after thorough flushing and decontamination, seek medical evaluation.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for severe respiratory distress, which may present as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are more vulnerable to severe respiratory effects and should seek medical help sooner. Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or hives, also require prompt medical intervention. If there is any concern about eye injury, such as persistent pain, foreign body sensation, or changes in vision, a medical professional should assess the eyes for potential corneal abrasion or other damage.