Hydrogen sulfide is one of the chemicals that makes up the skunk spray once it is released. It has a very strong odor and poisoning can occur when it is inhaled in high quantities. The colorless gas also has irritant effects on the human body and can cause cellular respiratory arrest. The gas can poison the body and if exposure is extended, it can result in sudden death. Exposure to this gas can also cause loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. Children are more likely to suffer from the toxic effects of this gas when exposed to the skunk spray.
The skunk spray has different thiols including 3-methyl-1-butanethiol, (E)-2-butene-1-thiol and 2-quinolinemethanethiol. The 3-methyl-1-butanethiol and (E)-2-butene-1-thiol are responsible for the strong odor that the skunk produces. The 2-quinolinemethanethiol does not have a very strong smell because it has low volatility. The other thiols give the skunk spray a distinct smell that is very offensive; this smell is usually very effective in warning off or scaring away predators.
When exposed to skunk toxins, your eyes can start to water and you get a burning sensation in the nose. In some people, exposure causes nausea and vomiting. Exposure can also cause breathing difficulties among people who suffer from asthma. After exposure to the skunk toxins, you need to seek proper ventilation. Additionally, the skunk aims at the eyes when releasing the spray in defense and this will result in a burning sensation that can cause temporary blindness. Flushing your eyes with some cold water will help to get rid of the sensation. You should remove the chemicals from your body as soon as possible because they are inflammable. Taking a bath immediately after exposure will help to reduce the smell.
After exposure to skunk toxins, you should seek medical attention especially if you find it difficult to breathe. People who suffer from asthma require medical attention after exposure. However, high levels of skunk toxins cannot occur in natural settings. The toxins have adverse effects when the spray is harvested in large quantities.