Choking agents are a type of chemical weapon that can cause severe respiratory distress and suffocation. These agents primarily affect the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and potentially death. Common examples include chlorine and phosgene, which can be released as gases in the air. When inhaled, choking agents can damage lung tissue and disrupt the body's ability to take in oxygen. Symptoms may include coughing, choking, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Due to their harmful effects, choking agents are banned under various international treaties, including the Chemical Weapons Convention.