Ammonium nitrate, chemical formula NH4NO3, comes in the form of colorless or white crystals. Although it has many useful applications, such as in fertilizer due to its high nitrogen content and in first aid cold packs for its endothermic reaction with water, it can be very harmful to the human body if not handled with care. Ammonium nitrate is a very strong oxidizer and contact with other materials or a strong heat source may cause a fire. Ammonium nitrate has various adverse side effects on some common human physiological processes. Warning: this chemical compound must be handled with care, used in a well-ventilated area and kept out of the reach of children.
Inhalation
The inhalation of ammonium nitrate can cause irritation to the respiratory tract. According to a white paper from jtbaker.com, the symptoms include but are not limited to coughing, sore throat, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and labored breathing. Inhalation of large quantities can cause systemic acidosis and abnormal hemoglobin in the cells. This can often be identified by a bluish discoloration of the skin, known as cyanosis. In case of inhalation, remove victim from the problem area to fresh air.
Ingestion
According to a material safety data sheet from Fisher Scientific, ammonium nitrate is harmful if ingested and has been known to cause methemoglobinemia resulting in cyanosis. Oral ingestion of large quantities of nitrates can cause gastrointestinal irritation, dizziness, severe abdominal pain coupled with vomiting, bloody diarrhea, physical weakness and/or convulsions, collapse and possible coma. Small, repeated oral doses and chronic exposure to nitrates has been known to cause depression, headache, weakness and mental impairment. In the event of ingestion, do not induce vomiting but wash the victim's mouth out with water and give large quantities of water. Seek medical attention.
Physical Contact
Care should be taken when handling ammonium nitrate. Contact with the skin or eyes can cause severe irritation. Symptoms may include redness, itching, and pain to the affected area. Prolonged contact with the skin can cause burning, and proper personal protective equipment such as goggles and appropriate chemical resistant rubber gloves should be used when handling this substance. If physical contact with the skin is made, wash the contaminated area with large quantities of water and remove any contaminated clothing.
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