Smoke Inhalation
Smoke Inhalation is the number one cause of fire related deaths. As a result of smoke inhalation an estimated 50-80% of fire deaths occur. Smoke is a combination of gases and heated particles. Smoke inhalation takes place when you breathe in combustion during a fire. Different types of smokes are produced depending on the product that is being burned, the temperature of the fire and the amount of oxygen available to the fire.
There are many different symptoms of smoke inhalation, they can range from: cough, shortness of breath, hoarseness, headache, to acute mental status changes.
There are tests and procedure that can be done in order to determine if one has smoke inhalation and the severity. A chest x-ray, pulse oximetry and blood test are the most common to determine smoke inhalation.
Treatment for smoke inhalation varies. Oxygen can be used by mask, nose tube or a tube down the throat. Bronchoscopy is a procedure that can view damage done to the airway and allow for removal of debris and secretions. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can also be used to reduce the symptoms of the nervous system and if contaminated with carbon monoxide the patient may recover quicker. All of these options are available with the consult of a physician.
