Cyanide is a fast-acting and potentially lethal substance that can appear as a colorless gas, like hydrogen cyanide (HCN) or cyanogen chloride (CNCl), or in a crystalline form, such as sodium cyanide (NaCN) or potassium cyanide (KCN). Although sometimes described as having an "almond-like" smell, not everyone can detect this odor, and it may not always be present. In the military, hydrogen cyanide is referred to as AN, and cyanogen chloride is known as CK.This chemical occurs naturally in certain foods and plants. It's also found in smoke from burning synthetic materials like plastics. In industry, cyanide is used in the production of paper, textiles, plastics, and photographic chemicals. Cyanide salts play a role in metallurgy for electroplating, metal cleaning, and gold extraction. Cyanide gas is utilized for pest control on ships and in buildings. Accidental ingestion can occur with acetonitrile-based products used for removing artificial nails. Notably, hydrogen cyanide, under the name Zyklon B, was used by the Germans during World War II for genocide.Exposure to cyanide can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with contaminated air, water, food, or soil. It enters the environment through natural processes and industrial activities. In the air, it primarily exists as gaseous hydrogen cyanide. For non-industry workers, cigarette smoking is a significant source of exposure.The severity of cyanide poisoning depends on the dose, route, and duration of exposure. Inhalation is particularly harmful, especially in confined spaces, whereas outdoor exposure is less dangerous due to rapid dispersion. Cyanide inhibits oxygen uptake by cells, causing cellular death. It is especially harmful to the heart and brain, which require a lot of oxygen.Symptoms from minor exposure include rapid breathing, restlessness, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and a quickened heart rate. Large doses can lead to seizures, slowed heart rate, unconsciousness, lung damage, and potentially fatal respiratory failure. Those who survive severe exposure may suffer from long-term heart and brain damage.To safeguard against cyanide exposure:1. Move to fresh air immediately to reduce the risk of fatality from gas exposure. If the release is outdoors, distance yourself from the source. If indoors, evacuate the building.2. If evacuation is impossible, stay low to the ground.3. Remove any clothing contaminated with liquid cyanide and double-bag it in plastic. Notify health authorities or emergency coordinators about the sealed bags without handling them further.4. Rinse eyes with water for 10 to 15 minutes if they burn or vision is blurred.5. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water to remove cyanide.6. Do not induce vomiting or give liquids if cyanide has been swallowed.7. Seek immediate medical help by calling 911 and explaining the situation.Cyanide poisoning requires specific antidotes and medical care in a hospital. Prompt medical treatment is crucial for survival.
