What is smoke inhalation?
A person with smoke inhalation has inhaled poisonous gasses and soot from a fire. Smoke does not contain enough oxygen to meet the body's demand. In addition, many substances in smoke are toxic to the human body. Smoke can cause damage to the lungs and airways, or poisoning can occur if a chemical in the smoke is absorbed by the lungs. Smoke inhalation may account for 70 percent of fire-related deaths in the US.

What are the symptoms of smoke inhalation?
Symptoms of smoke inhalation may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, cough, chest pain, headache, vomiting, excessive sleepiness, confusion, fainting, coma, blue lips, or blue nailbeds.

How does the doctor treat smoke inhalation?
Treatment for smoke inhalation may include intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and bronchodilator medications. Treatment for severe smoke inhalation may require a ventilator to support breathing.