We had kinda same experience in the conscription service. Gathering in a room which was filled with tear gas. Also we volunteered to experience the effects of a pepper spray. Gosh that hurt, plus how my nose turned into a snot fountain while the saliva in my mouth and throat felt like lava.
It was winter too, -30 degrees Celcius. After we recovered a bit, we were told to NOT touch our faces BEFORE we had washed ourselves. But when we got back to our unit, I absent-mindedly wiped my runny nose with my glove.
Had to run to the toilet, as the burning/tingling effect in my face began all over again.