Top Health Issues After a House Fire

A house fire may be a terrifying occurrence with significant repercussions, not only during the fire but afterwards as well.

If you live in a home that has suffered smoke damage in any form, you should be aware of various after effects and hazards so you can take precautions to protect yourself. Everything from bronchitis attacks to infections may result.

Below we’ll discuss some of the most typical health problems that homeowners may experience following a fire.

Chemicals from a House Fire

Unfortunately, the physical damage caused by a house fire is not the only thing you need to be aware of. In addition, certain materials in your home may contain chemicals that once they catch fire, are released into the atmosphere. Some substances, despite being flammable, do not burn cleanly, causing both smoke and soot.

Some of these items include:



• Carpets
• Fabric
• Wool
• Plastics
• Foams
• Wood products
• Items containing asbestos

Any of these, once affected by smoke and fire, might pose health risks and make fire repair a risky and challenging process.

Health issues people experience after a fire

Asthma attacks

Smoke can cause a lot of respiratory issues, including asthma, a medical condition which impedes your ability to breathe. If you experience chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, or any other breathing issues, you need to see a doctor. Be aware of the signs and take the necessary precautions.

Bronchitis

Another result of inhaling smoke is bronchitis, an inflammation of the air sacs in your lungs. Smoke from a fire frequently contains high concentrations of carbon monoxide, which over time can seriously harm the lungs. See your doctor right away if you develop fever, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath following a home fire. Your physician will probably prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and to diminish any pain and suffering it may cause.



If neglected, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions can quickly turn fatal. Avoiding the smoke from the burning structure and going outside as soon as possible once the fire is put out are two preventative measures.

Sinus Infections

Bronchitis and possible lung cancer are serious respiratory diseases that are frequently brought on by house fires. Fires may also cause bacteria to enter the nasal passages through the mouth or nose and cause sinus infections. These may in turn lead to bloody noses and sore throats.



If you suffer any of these symptoms following a fire, consult a doctor as soon as you can.

Eye irritation

As a result of the smoke and soot from a house fire, you may also experience eye irritation. Avoid touching or itching your eyes following a fire as this can increase the damage. If your eyes are red and scratchy, you should contact a doctor. Left untreated, they may only get worse.

Skin problems

Burns to the skin may result from a home fire. Even if the fire never touched your skin, the intense heat may leave burns which result in significant pain. A doctor will typically prescribe topical ointments and antibiotics to reduce discomfort and to avoid long-term damage.



Be cautious also with any clothing that could contain residual soot or smoke which might irritate your skin. It’s best to wash your entire wardrobe before re-wearing any of your clothes.

Infection of other organs

Infections of other organs, such as the bladder and kidneys, can also result from house fires. People who already have diseases like diabetes or HIV infection are more likely to experience these, since these disorders make them more vulnerable to illness.



Symptoms such as fever, dark urine, fast weight loss, and stomach discomfort should be taken extremely seriously after a house fire, as any one of them can indicate the beginning of an infection.

Long Term Effects

There are also certain possible long-term concerns following exposure to a house fire. For example, heat and flame exposure can result in damage to a person’s lungs and heart, either of which might be fatal.

Also sobering is the potential of cancer caused by soot and smoke exposure. Children and newborns are at an increased risk for this, so make sure to have a doctor examine them immediately if they were anywhere near the fire or smoke.

Make sure your home is properly restored after fire damage to protect your families health.

Craftech are experts at fire damage restoration. With over 50 years of experience helping families get back to normal after fires occur, have peace of mind your home will be taken care of with Craftech.

We treat every restoration process with care, cleaning thoroughly like your home is our own.

If you are experiencing any fire damage in the New England area, give us a call!