Which group is at higher risk for inhalation injuries during OC exposure?

• A. Asthmatics are at higher risk for inhalation injuries during physical confrontations.
• B. Children under five are at higher risk for inhalation injuries during OC exposure.
• C. People with no respiratory issues are at no risk.
• D. Elderly individuals are at the sole risk group.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that pre-existing respiratory conditions raise the likelihood of inhalation injury from OC spray. OC spray irritates the nose, throat, and especially the lungs. If someone has asthma, their airways are already inflamed and hyperreactive, so exposure can trigger bronchoconstriction, coughing, wheezing, and swelling of the airway lining. This makes breathing more difficult and increases the risk of a more severe respiratory reaction compared to someone with no respiratory issues. While other groups may be more vulnerable for various reasons, the presence of asthma specifically heightens the risk of inhalation injury during OC exposure.