When to Seek Medical Care

If the smoke inhalation victim has no signs or symptoms, home observation may be appropriate. If in doubt, call the doctor or go to the local emergency department for advice.

Seek medical attention if the patient experience the following symptoms with smoke inhalation:

• Hoarse voice
  
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
  
• Prolonged coughing spells
  
  
• Mental confusion

Decide whether to call an ambulance for assistance.

• Someone with smoke inhalation can get worse quickly.
  
  
• If such a person were transported by private vehicle, significant injury or death could occur on the way that could have been avoided if that person were transported by emergency medical services.