What are the long term effects for my child if he inhales a lot of smoke?
Although smoke inhalation can damage the lining of the lung cells, normal cells usually replace the damaged cells in a matter of days. Most of the effects are short term. The effect may be more serious in infants or children with chronic lung conditions or if the exposure is very prolonged (over months or years). Symptoms like cough, wheezing or shortness of breath might develop. A few days later if the swelling and extra mucus production do not clear, there is a possibility of a pneumonia developing. You should contact your physician if you child is experiencing persistent breathing difficulty or chest tightness.