
Pepper spray is a tool that is commonly used for self-defense purposes or by law enforcement. It is designed to cause temporary incapacitation, not long-term damage, but in some cases, pepper spray may cause more severe impact than intended. Pepper spray generally does not cause permanent harm but it can have unexpected impacts, which a respected pepper spray attorney can discuss further.
The Effects of Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is designed to cause temporary discomfort and incapacitation, including:
- Burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and other areas with mucus membranes
- Significant tear production in the eyes
- Significant coughing
- Some difficulty with breathing
Most of the time, the effects of pepper spray will pass within a few hours. Flushing the affected areas with water can also help speed the resolution of those symptoms.
The Risks Associated With Pepper Spray Usage
While pepper spray is not intended to cause long-term damage, there are cases in which it can cause more severe impact and, in rare instances, long-term effects. Permanent damage from pepper spray can include some of the following challenges.
Potential Lung Damage or Enhanced Concerns
Individuals who have asthma, COPD, and other conditions that can increase irritation in the lungs, may suffer more severe symptoms when exposed to pepper spray. It can cause asthma attacks, heart attacks, and other serious heart and lung problems, especially when these individuals are exposed to high quantities of pepper spray or receive direct exposure.
Increased Eye Sensitivity
In some cases, repeated exposure to pepper spray can cause increased sensitivity to the eyes and corneas. While permanent damage is rare and generally only comes after multiple exposures, pepper spray can cause visual changes or other difficulty. Individuals can also suffer corneal abrasions because of pepper spray use, often because of the severity of their reaction to it or scrubbing at the eyes after being sprayed.
Allergies
Some people may have an allergy to the ingredients used in pepper spray, including capsicum, the primary ingredient in most sprays. An allergic reaction can cause life-threatening impact, including swelling of the airways that can lead to death.
Factors That Increase the Risk of Permanent Damage
There are several factors that can increase the odds that someone hit with pepper spray will suffer permanent or long-term effects from that exposure, including:
- Being very close to the spray when it’s deployed
- Direct spray to the eyes, which can cause an increased risk of eye problems
- Underlying medical conditions that increase the risk to the individual, including respiratory or heart conditions
- The person’s previous usage of drugs
Pepper spray is considered a non-lethal weapon, but even when used correctly, it can pose a serious risk to some individuals. Often, those increased risk factors are unpredictable, which can make it very difficult for police officers and others using pepper spray to effectively predict when it will cause permanent damage.
Contact a Lawyer if You Suffered Permanent Damage From Pepper Spray
While pepper spray does not usually cause permanent damage, in the situations where it does, it can mean long-term limitations and serious losses. If you suffered permanent damage from pepper spray, you may deserve compensation for the medical costs and other financial and non-financial losses that can go along with it. One of our lawyers can help you learn more about your rights and the steps you need to take in order to protect yourself. Contact A. W. Smith Law Firm today to discuss your options.