Besides the skin, where else can irritant agents provoke localized negative responses?
Answer
Mucous membranes, affecting the eyes or respiratory tract.
The definition of an irritant extends beyond the integumentary system (skin) to any living tissue it contacts. Tissues lined by delicate mucous membranes are highly susceptible to irritation. If substances, such as fumes or particles, are inhaled, they can irritate the lining of the airways, leading to symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing. Similarly, contact with the eyes can provoke immediate negative reactions characterized by watering, redness, and pain, demonstrating the broad applicability of the term 'irritant' across various susceptible biological surfaces.
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