![]() ![]() There is also the potential for chronic health effects from exposure to the components of smoke. Additional information on carbon monoxide and fine particles can be found at the web addresses listed at the end of this fact sheet. Anyone with persisting or frequent symptoms that they think are associated with smoke exposure should see their health care provider. If your age or health status places you at greater risk from smoke exposure you should speak with your doctor about alternative steps you can take when encountering smoky situations. Once exposure stops, symptoms from inhaling carbon monoxide or fine particles generally diminish, but may last for a couple of days.Īvoiding smoky situations is the best way to avoid exposure. ![]() During increased physical exertion, cardiovascular effects can be worsened by exposure to carbon monoxide and particulate matter. Inhaling fine particles can cause a variety of health effects, including respiratory irritation and shortness of breath, and can worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Fine particles are able to travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs. This can cause headaches, reduce alertness, and aggravate a heart condition known as angina. Inhaling carbon monoxide decreases the body's oxygen supply. These particles are two and one half (2.5) microns or less in size (25,400 microns equal an inch) and individual particles are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Two of the major agents in smoke that can cause health effects are carbon monoxide gas and very small particles (fine particles, or PM2.5 ). ![]() Studies have shown that some people exposed to heavy smoke have temporary changes in lung function, which makes breathing more difficult. Smoke is irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat, and its odor may be nauseating. Inhaling smoke for a short time can cause immediate (acute) effects. Individuals with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma), fetuses, infants, young children, and the elderly may be more vulnerable to the health effects of smoke exposure. Individuals are advised to limit their physical exertion if exposure to high levels of smoke cannot be avoided. The type and amount of particles and chemicals in smoke varies depending on what is burning, how much oxygen is available, and the burn temperature.Įxposure to high levels of smoke should be avoided. Smoke can contain many different chemicals, including aldehydes, acid gases, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), benzene, toluene, styrene, metals and dioxins. All smoke contains carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and particulate matter (PM or soot). The smoke released by any type of fire (forest, brush, crop, structure, tires, waste or wood burning) is a mixture of particles and chemicals produced by incomplete burning of carbon-containing materials.
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