Chemical Bronchitis

Chemical bronchitis is acute inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree from inhalation of irritant gases/fumes (chlorine/ammonia/smoke), presenting with cough, chest tightness, dyspnea, wheeze, and risk of delayed pulmonary edema. Treatment: remove from exposure; humidified oxygen; bronchodilators; bronchoscopy for smoke inhalation/soot; systemic corticosteroids in selected; monitor 24-48 h for delayed edema; supportive care; treat infection if suspected.

Common Symptoms

Cough/chest tightness; dyspnea/wheeze; irritant-gas exposure; risk of delayed edema

Causes and Pathogenesis

Irritant gases cause airway mucosal inflammation and possible delayed edema.

Treatment

Remove exposure; humidified oxygen; bronchodilators; bronchoscopy if smoke; monitor delayed edema

Preventive Measures

Respiratory protection; workplace gas control; smoke alarms.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pulmonology-Emergency/Occupational-medicine department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.