The evaluation of a toxic inhalation begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a toxic inhalation may include:

• Confusion
• Coughing
• Cyanosis:
• Blue lips or nailbeds
• Fever
• Rapid breathing rate
• Redness in the nose, mouth or throat
• Signs of respiratory distress:
• Rib retractions
• Accessory muscle use
• Nasal flaring
• Wheezing

Tests that may be used to evaluate a toxic inhalation include:

• Chest x-ray
• Normal chest x-rays
• Pneumonia
• Bronchoscopy
• Pulse oximetry
• Arterial blood gases
• Pulmonary function tests
• Sputum cultures
• Serum acetylcholinesterase level
• Carboxyhemoglobin level
• Methemoglobin level

For more information:

• Smoke inhalation evaluation
• Carbon monoxide poisoning evaluation
• Cyanide poisoning evaluation