What happens during severe contamination from nerve agents?

Severe contamination from nerve agents leads to a range of symptoms predominantly due to the overstimulation of the nervous system. One of the hallmark signs of nerve agent exposure is the uncontrolled muscle contractions or spasms, which happen because these agents inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This inhibition results in the accumulation of acetylcholine in the synapses, causing persistent stimulation of the muscles and glands. The overstimulation can also lead to autonomic responses such as vomiting, as the body reacts to the distress caused by the toxic effects of the nerve agent.

Muscle spasms combined with vomiting are clear indications of acute cholinergic crisis, which can occur within minutes of exposure to a nerve agent. Understanding these symptoms is vital for quick recognition and treatment, emphasizing the critical nature of the response to nerve agents. Other symptoms, while potentially present, do not encompass the immediate and life-threatening reactions associated with severe nerve agent contamination as effectively as the combination of muscle spasms and vomiting does.