Overview
Inhaling chemicals can cause a range of health problems, from mild respiratory irritation to life-threatening lung injury. Depending on the type, concentration, and duration of exposure, inhaled chemicals can damage the airways, lungs, and other organs. In Korea, where industrial work, laboratory research, and urban pollution are common, medical facilities are well-prepared to handle chemical inhalation emergencies through specialized toxicology and respiratory care centers.
What is Chemical Inhalation?
Chemical inhalation refers to the breathing in of toxic gases, vapors, fumes, or aerosols that can irritate or damage the respiratory system. Some chemicals cause immediate injury (e.g., chlorine, ammonia), while others cause delayed lung damage (e.g., phosgene, nitrogen dioxide). Depending on severity, chemical inhalation may lead to chemical pneumonitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or even systemic poisoning.
Symptoms
- Coughing and throat irritation
- Burning sensation in the nose, throat, or chest
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Watery or burning eyes
- Headache, dizziness, or confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Severe cases: bluish skin (cyanosis), unconsciousness, or respiratory failure
Causes
- Industrial accidents (factories, chemical plants, shipyards)
- Laboratory exposure (research chemicals, solvents, disinfectants)
- Household cleaning agents (bleach, ammonia, strong disinfectants)
- Agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fertilizers)
- Fire smoke containing toxic gases (carbon monoxide, cyanide, hydrochloric acid fumes)
Risk Factors
- Workers in chemical industries, agriculture, or laboratories
- People living near industrial zones
- Firefighters or emergency responders
- Inadequate use of protective masks or ventilation systems
- Asthma or chronic lung disease patients (more vulnerable)
Complications
- Chemical pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
- Pulmonary edema (fluid buildup in the lungs)
- Chronic bronchitis or asthma-like conditions
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
- Long-term lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis)
- Systemic toxicity (affecting liver, kidneys, or nervous system depending on the chemical)
Prevention
- Use proper protective equipment (respirators, masks, goggles) when handling chemicals
- Ensure proper ventilation in workplaces and homes
- Follow safety guidelines for chemical storage and handling
- Regular health checkups for workers in high-risk industries
- Public awareness programs about chemical safety in Korea
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea has advanced emergency and respiratory care services to treat chemical inhalation injuries:
- Emergency care:
- Immediate removal from exposure site
- Oxygen therapy in emergency rooms
- Airway support (bronchodilators, intubation if severe)
- Medications:
- Corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation in some cases)
- Antibiotics if secondary infection develops
- Pain and cough management medicines
- Advanced care:
- Mechanical ventilation in severe cases
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for critical lung injury (available in leading Korean hospitals)
