Which of the following is a common symptom of chemical agent exposure?

Persistent cough is recognized as a common symptom following exposure to certain chemical agents, particularly those that affect the respiratory system. Chemical agents such as chlorinated compounds, ammonia, and tear gas can irritate the airways and lungs, leading to inflammation and coughing as the body tries to clear out the irritants. This respiratory response is a natural defense mechanism aimed at expelling harmful substances.

Furthermore, a persistent cough following exposure may indicate ongoing irritation or damage to the respiratory tissues, which can be critical for medical personnel and first responders to monitor. It serves as a key indicator for assessing the severity of exposure and may guide the course of treatment and the need for further medical evaluations.

While dizziness, rectal bleeding, and shortness of breath can occur in certain scenarios or with specific agents, they are not as universally associated with chemical exposure as a persistent cough, which is directly linked to respiratory response mechanisms upon contact with irritants found in chemical agents.