Treating Chemical and Biological Agent Casualties

Lesson 2: Treating Nerve Agent Poisoning
Section I: Treat Self

Section I. TREAT SELF

2-1. IDENTIFY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF NERVE AGENT POISONING

a. Identification. Since nerve agents are quick acting, you must be able to detect the signs and symptoms of nerve agent poisoning in yourself and in another so that you can act quickly to protect yourself.

b. Early (Mild) Signs and Symptoms. Early signs and symptoms of nerve agent poisoning include the following:

(1) Unexplained rhinorrhea (runny nose with thin nasal mucus).

 

(2) Sudden headache.

 

(3) Excessive flow of saliva (drooling).

 

(4) Tightness in the chest causing difficulty in breathing.

 

(5) Wheezing during inhaling.

 

(6) Stomach cramps.

 

(7) Coughing.

 

(8) Nausea.

 

(9) Impaired vision due to miosis (contracted pupils).