HomeHealth TopicsLungs BreathingInhalation Injuries
Back to Lungs Breathing
Inhalation Injuries
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lungs Breathing

Inhalation Injuries

Inhalation injuries are acute respiratory damages caused by breathing in toxic substances, smoke, chemicals, or extreme heat.

Overview

Inhalation injuries are acute injuries to the respiratory system and lungs. They occur when breathing in toxic substances such as smoke from fires, chemicals, particle pollution, or gases. Extreme heat can also cause thermal inhalation injuries. Over half of deaths from fires are attributed to these injuries.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary based on the substance inhaled but often include:

  • Coughing and phlegm
  • Scratchy throat
  • Irritated sinuses
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Headaches
  • Stinging eyes
  • Runny nose

Inhalation injuries can exacerbate existing chronic heart or lung conditions.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Providers may use a scope to examine airways for damage. Other diagnostic tools include imaging tests, blood tests, and lung function tests. Treatment focuses on ensuring the airway is not blocked and typically involves oxygen therapy and, in some cases, medication or the use of a ventilator. While most people recover, severe injuries or smoking can lead to permanent breathing problems.

Prevention

Steps to prevent inhalation injuries include:

  • Practicing home fire safety and maintaining an emergency plan.
  • Limiting outdoor time during wildfires or high particulate pollution; keeping indoor air clean by closing windows and using air filters.
  • Following medical advice for respiratory management if you have asthma or heart/lung disease.
  • Handling chemicals and gases safely and using appropriate protective equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Call emergency services right away. While waiting, move to fresh air, keep your head elevated, and avoid exertion. If you have a breathing problem, use your prescribed inhaler or nebulizer. Do not drive yourself to the hospital; let emergency responders assess your airway first.
Mild injuries often improve within 24–48 hours with rest, adequate hydration, and oxygen therapy if needed. However, it can take several weeks for airway inflammation to fully resolve, so follow up with your clinician for repeat spirometry or imaging if symptoms persist.
Yes, especially if the injury involved high temperatures or toxic chemicals. Chronic bronchitis, reduced lung capacity, or increased susceptibility to infections can result. Prevention includes using smoke alarms, keeping windows closed during wildfires, wearing respirators in hazardous environments, and following post‑injury rehabilitation with breathing exercises and pulmonary rehab if recommended.
It is best to avoid cough suppressants unless prescribed, because coughing helps clear mucus and debris from the lungs. If the cough is severe or painful, a mild antihistamine or a decongestant may help, but always consult your clinician first.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss