WASHINGTON — Tear gas is a chemical weapon used for crowd control that causes irritation to the eyes, mouth, throat, lungs and skin, thus incapacitating individuals.
The most common chemicals found in a tear gas canister are 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile, commonly known as CS gas, and chloroacetophenone, a component that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes as having a "sharp irritating odor."
Individuals exposed to tear gas may experience wheezing, shortness of breath and vomiting along with a burning sensation in their eyes, nose and skin.
If exposed to the anti-riot agent for a prolonged time, individuals can develop serious eye illnesses such as scarring, cataracts and glaucoma. It may also lead to respiratory issues such as asthma.
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