Smoke inhalation

Smoke inhalation is the primary cause of death in victims of indoor fires.

The smoke injures or kills by a combination of thermal damage, poisoning and pulmonary irritation caused by carbon monoxide, cyanide and other combustion products.

It is estimated that “50-80% of fire deaths are the result of smoke inhalation injuries rather than burns.”[2]

Symptoms range from coughing and vomiting to nausea, sleepiness and confusion.

Burns to the nose, mouth and face; singed nostril hairs; and difficulty breathing / carbonaceous sputum (burned saliva) are also signs of smoke inhalation injury.

Any person with apparent signs of smoke inhalation should be immediately evaluated by a medical professional such as a firefighter-paramedic or physician. Advanced medical care may be necessary to save the life of the patient, including mechanical ventilation, even if the person is conscious and alert. Pending advanced intervention, the patient should be brought into fresh air and given medical oxygen if available.

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