What are the key symptoms of exposure to nerve agents?

Exposure to nerve agents leads to a distinct set of symptoms primarily due to their impact on the nervous system. The correct response highlights critical signs such as muscle twitching, convulsions, respiratory distress, and the potential for loss of consciousness.

Nerve agents inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This inhibition results in an accumulation of acetylcholine, leading to overstimulation of the nervous system. Symptoms such as muscle twitching and convulsions arise from this overstimulation, as the muscles receive constant signals to contract without the normal ability to relax. Additionally, respiratory distress occurs because the muscles involved in breathing become compromised, and the autonomic functions necessary for regulating the respiratory rate and depth can be severely impacted. Loss of consciousness may occur as the central nervous system is overwhelmed by the heightened activity and lacks the ability to maintain basic functions.

Understanding these symptoms is crucial for medical personnel and first responders, as they can guide immediate treatment decisions and interventions following exposure to a nerve agent.