What actually happens to your lungs when you inhale the fumes from mixing bleach and ammonia?

Question

I already know that you are not supposed to mix bleach and ammonia, but I was wondering what happens bio-chemically in your lungs and mucous membranes if the fumes are inhaled?

I know the reaction goes something like
2NaOCl + 2NH3 --> 2NaONH3 + Cl2.
In which the Cl2 is the gas

Answer 1

The chlorine in the gas phase is inhaled into your respiratory system. On the way through the nose / mouth and other wet areas into your lungs the chlorine reacts with the water on your membranes to form hydrchloric acid.

Nasty nasty. The acid burns away your mucous membranes and the inside of your lungs. Severe acute exposure will cause the lungs to stop working and you will suffocate in extreme pain! Mild acute exposure will cause severe lung damage.