Symptoms.—Being volatile, it attacks the air-passages, nose, eyes and lungs, being immediately affected; profuse salivation; lips and tongue swollen, red, and glazed. The urgent symptoms are those of suffocation.
Inhalation of the fumes of strong ammonia may lead to death from capillary bronchitis or broncho-pneumonia. Death may result from inflammation of the larynx and lungs. When swallowed in solution, the symptoms are similar to those of soda and potash.
Post-Mortem Appearances.—Similar to other corrosives.
Method of Extraction from the Stomach.—The contents of the stomach, etc., must be first distilled, the gas being conveyed into water free from ammonia.
Tests.—Nessler's reagent is the most delicate, a reddish-brown colour or precipitate being produced, but ammonia may be recognized by its pungent odour, dense fumes given off with hydrochloric acid, and strong alkaline reaction.
Treatment.—Vinegar and water. Other treatment according to symptoms.
Fatal Dose.—One drachm of strong solution.
Fatal Period (Shortest).—Four minutes.