Can Smoke Inhalation Causes Health Issues After the Fire Is Out?
June 12, 2019
For days or even weeks after a fire is completely extinguished, you may suffer from the effects of smoke inhalation and contamination. In fact, according to research, it’s one of the leading causes of death during/after a property fire. Overall, an estimated 50% to 80% of fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, not burns. The smoke released by fire is a toxic mixture of chemicals and airborne particles that leads to intense respiratory conditions and long-term health effects. As such, any exposure to smoke damage should be avoided at all costs. The best way to treat your home is via professional smoke damage restoration services from a local team.
Causes of Smoke Inhalation
At a basic level, smoke inhalation is the simple act of ingesting smoke contaminants from the air. It’s a little more complex than that, though.
Asphyxiants
Most often, with a house fire in an enclosed space, combustion removes the oxygen from the air and causes asphyxiation, as there is not enough oxygen for anyone left in the building. Even worse, the smoke takes up the space of oxygen, ensuring there is even less oxygen available.
Irritants
Then, combustion can also lead to the formation of nasty chemicals that lead to physical and respiratory injury when in contact with the skin or mucous membranes. These airborne substances disrupt the respiratory tract, leading to swelling, respiratory distress, and even an airway collapse.
Chemicals
Lastly, a fire creates chemical compounds in the air that interfere with the oxygen already in your body. These compounds include carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and hydrogen sulfide – chemicals that attack on a cellular level. If the oxygen in your body is inhibited, the cells will begin to die.
Symptoms of Smoke Inhalation
There are many signs and symptoms associated with smoke inhalation, which can develop immediately or over time. These signs include:
Coughing – The mucous membranes within the respiratory tract quickly become irritated, secreting more mucus and leading to an intense cough.Shortness of Breath– This is either caused by a direct injury to the respiratory tract or because of chemicals within the smoke inhibiting the body’s use of oxygen.Irritation – The contaminants produced by smoke lead to eye, skin, and throat irritation. The eyes will appear red and swollen, with burnt portions of the corneas present. As for the skin, the color may change from pale to blush or cherry-colored.Headache –Quantities of carbon monoxide in the smoke directly affect your respiratory tract and the brain, leading to a severe headache, nausea, confusion, and vomiting.
In the event of a house fire, please do not hesitate to call Restoration 1 of Central Houston. We have IICRC-certified technicians standing by today!
Flood damage can devastate your Houston, TX home. Restoration 1 of Central Houston provides 24/7 flood damage restoration, water removal, and repairs to protect your property.
Storms can cause severe window damage in Houston, TX. Restoration 1 of Central Houston offers 24/7 storm damage restoration, window repair, and water damage recovery.
Need help fast? Contact Restoration 1 of Central Houston for a thorough inspection and water damage restoration services backed by experience and local knowledge.
For peace of mind, schedule a professional assessment with Restoration 1 of Central Houston to catch what others miss—before it becomes a costly repair.
At Restoration 1 of Central Houston, we’ve helped countless homeowners recover from sump pump failures and flooded basements. Here’s what you need to know.
The Importance of Fast Action After a Basement Flood Restoration 1 of Central Houston | Servicing Houston, TX
Contact Restoration Central Houston today for a free consultation and waterproofing basement inspection.
When water damage hits your Houston property, acting fast isn’t just about cleanup—it’s also critical for your insurance claim.
House fires can start in an instant—and in a city like Houston, where extreme heat and electrical demand collide, being fire-ready is a must. At Restoration 1 of Central Houston, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly things can go wrong.
Fire damage and mold may seem like two separate issues—but they often go hand in hand. After a fire, many Houston homeowners are surprised to discover mold taking hold in their homes just days later. Understanding why this happens can help you act fast and protect your property.
