Section: Overview
Smoke inhalation injury is direct damage to the airways and lung tissue caused by exposure to heat, particulate matter in smoke and the gaseous by-products of fire.
Smoke inhalation injury can be caused by:
Thermal (heat induced) injury to the upper airways
Inhalation of particulate matter that settles in upper airways and the lungs
Asphyxia (suffocation) since the fire reduces the oxygen content in the air that is breathed
Chemical injury, due to chemicals such as carbon monoxide, cyanide, acrolein, hydrogen chloride and aldehydes that are released as gases within the fire
Smoke inhalation injury can lead to bronchospasm and bronchoconstriction (spasming and constriction of the airways), carbon monoxide poisoning, pulmonary edema (accumulation of fluid in the lungs), acute respiratory distress (inability to breathe) and pneumonia. Smoke inhalation can be fatal.
What to Watch For
Bright red mucous membranes (inside of lip and gums)
Dry, unproductive cough
Raspy breathing sounds
Wheezing
Increased respiratory rate
Increased effort of breathing
Irritation of the eyes
Discharge from the eyes or nose
Collapse
Unconsciousness
Respiratory distress
Respiratory or cardiac arrest
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