Physical effects of OC spray include which of the following?

• A. Drowsiness and slowed breathing
• B. Skin rash only
• C. Localized inflammation, watering of eyes, burning eyes, runny nose, increased saliva, coughing/gagging
• D. Nausea and vomiting

Answer: (C)

OC spray causes immediate local irritation of exposed mucous membranes, especially in the eyes, nose, and throat. The active irritants trigger inflammation and stimulate sensory nerves, leading to tearing, burning, and watering of the eyes. A runny nose is common as the nasal passages react to the irritant, and the throat can become irritated enough to increase saliva and provoke coughing or gagging as the body tries to clear the substance. These signs—localized inflammation with eye tearing and burning, nasal discharge, extra saliva, and coughing/gagging—are the typical, primary physical effects you’d expect from OC spray. Drowsiness or slowed breathing aren’t characteristic since OC spray isn’t a central depressant; a skin rash alone doesn’t capture the prominent eye and airway irritation; and nausea or vomiting aren’t among the hallmark effects, though they can occur rarely.