Which is a symptom of an irritant exposure?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Burning sensation to eyes
• C. Convulsions
• D. Fluid in lungs

Answer: (B)

Irritant exposures tend to cause local irritation of exposed tissues, especially mucous membranes. The eyes are highly sensitive to vapors and splashes, so a burning sensation in the eyes is a classic and immediate sign that an irritant has contacted them. This eye irritation results from the irritant inflaming and irritating the conjunctival tissues, often with tearing and redness as well.

Diarrhea would suggest ingestion or a systemic toxic effect rather than a local mucous membrane irritation. Convulsions point to CNS toxicity rather than local tissue irritation. Fluid in the lungs can occur with inhalation injuries or chemical pneumonitis, but it’s not the typical early symptom of an irritant exposure. So the burning sensation to the eyes best reflects the characteristic response to an irritant exposure.