Ammonia gas is released from manure as it decomposes. This can cause problems in chicken houses unless preventive steps are taken.
Acute or chronic exposure to ammonia gas can cause
(1) inhalation injury in both humans and chickens
(2) chemical burns to the chickens
Risk factors for the generation of ammonia emissions:
(1) large number of hens
(2) allowing manure to accumulate
(3) poor ventilation
(4) failing to monitor ammonia levels
Differential diagnosis:
(1) other occupational respiratory conditions in farmers
(2) infection
(3) inhalation of other chemicals released from the manure
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Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
