This article will explore the process of smoke inhalation; the events leading up to and the effects after smoke inhalation. I will review the dangers of smoke from a fire as well as cigarette smoke; For example, toxins and chemicals released from burning materials. Carbon monoxide and hydrogen chloride are two of the toxins found in smoke from burning materials in house fires and in cigarettes. The document also reviews the short-term, long-term and permanent effects that occur on the body with different levels of exposure to smoke inhalation. Common effects of smoke inhalation include, but are not limited to, coughing, shortness of breath, and mental status changes. Smoke inhalation is life-threatening in the event of a fire; Meanwhile, cigarette smoke can have the same effect on smokers over time of continuous use. I will cover the treatment and outcomes of exposure to smoke inhalation and smoking as well as possible ways to prevent injuries. The Effects of Smoke Inhalation and Cigarettes Smoke inhalation causes 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths in the United States. A fire is not the only deadly factor in any fire; Burning materials release toxic byproducts into the air that can be just as deadly, if not more so, than a fire. Fires heat the air in a room; this hot air can burn the lungs if inhaled. Burning plastics can release byproducts such as hydrogen cyanide and phosgene which, at high levels, can cause pulmonary edema and death. These conditions may not be ideal for anyone, but some people voluntarily choose to ingest smoke. Components of tobacco smoke include tar, carbon monoxide, free radicals, hydrogen cyanide and carcinogens. Smoking reduces lung function and can damage many ... middle of paper ...... caloric asphyxiants include hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon monoxide; Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of death from smoke inhalation. Smoke not only contains toxic gases; it also contains particles and vapors. Particles can vary in size, they can enter the respiratory system and settle in the lungs; these particles can be toxic or irritating. Vapors in smoke can be inhaled and absorbed through the skin. Symptoms of smoke inhalation include shortness of breath, coughing, hoarseness or noisy breathing, irritated eyes, headache, soot, change in skin color, and altered mental state. A person exposed to smoke inhalation may have no respiratory problems but will have nausea, vomiting, headache, and altered mental status; These are all symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Fainting, confusion, seizures and coma can be the result of smoke inhalation..