Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Smoke inhalation
Introduction
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
The smoke injures or kills by a combination of thermal damage, poisoning and pulmonary irritation caused by carbon monoxide, cyanide and other combustion products.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
It is estimated that “50-80% of fire deaths are the result of smoke inhalation injuries rather than burns.”[2]
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Symptoms range from coughing and vomiting to nausea, sleepiness and confusion.
Physical Examination
HEENT
Burns to the nose, mouth and face; singed nostril hairs; and difficulty breathing / carbonaceous sputum (burned saliva) are also signs of smoke inhalation injury.
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy
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.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]