Smoke Inhalation & Lung Damage

When smoke is inhaled, damage to the lungs can occur due to the toxins in the smoke and the resulting inflammation within the lungs. The airways can fill with chemicals and may be prone to collapse or obstruction. Lung injury from smoke inhalation can be serious, permanent and may be fatal.

Heat Damage

• Smoke from fires is typically extremely hot, resulting in heat damage to the lungs, airways and mouth. In addition, heat damage can destroy cells in the mouth and throat that then slough off and fill the lungs, causing obstruction.

Asphyxiation

• Asphyxiation occurs when the body's tissues are unable to receive enough oxygen. When smoke is inhaled, oxygen levels are reduced and carbon monoxide levels rise.

Irritation

• When smoke is inhaled, the chemicals in the smoke can enter the lungs and irritate the lining of the lungs. This can cause difficulty breathing and may lead to an infection.

Firefighting

• Firefighters are particularly at risk for smoke inhalation due to repeated fire exposure. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 4,000 firefighters suffered injuries from smoke inhalation in one year alone.