Is Inhaling Ammonia Gas During Pregnancy A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Mon, 22 May 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 22 May 2017 Answered on

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I accidentally inhaled ammonia. I am 7 weeks pregnant. I came home early and my fiancé had it in a cup to clean and didn't inform me. I sniffed the cup not knowing what is was and got a huge wiff. He explained what is was and now I'm worried. Should I see the doctor?

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No need to see a doctor for this!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks so much for this query.

Ammonia will not cause an harm to you. Remember that when we urinate, it is broken down to ammonia and it is often not uncommon that we do inhale it. This will cause no harm and you shouldn't be alarmed about it. I suggest that you stay calm and there is no need for any specific evaluation or management.

I hope this helps. I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (4 minutes later)

It burned during inhale and now the smell wont leave my nose and my face is warm.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
These symptoms are not uncommon!

Detailed Answer:
HI,

These symptoms are not unexpected and need no specific medical intervention. Resolution would be spontaneous and most persons fully recover within 5days. Let me know how you respond to this exposure.

I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar