Chemical pneumonitis

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Lungs

Respiratory system

Treatment is focused on reversing the cause of inflammation and reducing symptoms. Corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation.

Antibiotics are usually not helpful or needed. Oxygen therapy may be helpful.

In cases of swallowing and stomach problems, eating small meals in the upright position can help.

The outcome depends on the chemical agent involved, the severity of exposure, and whether the problem is acute or chronic.

Respiratory failure and death can occur.

Call your health care provider if you have trouble breathing after inhaling (or possibly inhaling) any substance.

Review Date: 09/15/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Denis Hadjiliadis, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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