Bangkok: Survivors of the recent entertainment venue fire in the Lat Phrao area have been urgently advised to seek medical evaluations to rule out smoke poisoning, which can manifest up to 48 hours after exposure.
According to Thai News Agency, the Vice President of the Medical Association of Thailand, Lt. Col. Dr. Chanarit Lottaweesawat, emphasized the necessity for all fire survivors to undergo immediate health checkups. As an anesthesiologist and former disaster management professional, Dr. Chanarit highlighted the potential health hazards posed by both heat and smoke inhalation, even in the absence of visible injuries.
Dr. Chanarit stressed that symptoms such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, frequent coughing, coughing up black or sore sputum, hoarseness, severe sore throat, severe headache, dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness, lethargy, or unconsciousness are critical indicators of smoke poisoning or oxygen deprivation. Immediate medical attention is crucial if any of these symptoms appear.
'Smoke comprises hazardous substances like carbon monoxide and fine particulate matter such as PM 2.5, which are not visible to the naked eye. Inhaling carbon monoxide affects the red blood cells' ability to transport oxygen, leading to headaches, dizziness, decreased consciousness, and potential heart disease symptoms. Smaller particles directly enter the lungs, exacerbating breathing difficulties and symptoms in patients with pre-existing heart or lung conditions,' explained Dr. Chanarit.
He further advised that during a fire, victims should evacuate promptly and avoid smoke-filled areas. If traversing through smoke is unavoidable, they should stay low to the ground, as smoke and hot gases rise. Using a damp cloth to cover the nose and mouth can reduce inhalation of harmful particles.
Once in a safe area, victims should be moved to fresh air. Conscious individuals should be seated comfortably, while unconscious but breathing individuals should be placed in the recovery position to prevent airway obstruction. Tight clothing around the neck and chest should be loosened to aid lung expansion.
For those unconscious, unresponsive, and not breathing, immediate CPR should be administered, and emergency services contacted. Eye irritation from smoke should be treated with a 15-minute clean water rinse, and sore throats can be alleviated by sipping clean water gradually.
Dr. Chanarit cautioned against complacency, as inhalation injury symptoms may take 24-48 hours to appear. If symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, severe coughing, black soot in sputum, unusual hoarseness, or facial burn marks occur, hospitalization is essential. Medical evaluation will include checks for soot in airways, lung assessments, chest X-rays, bronchoscopy, and blood tests for carbon monoxide and oxygen levels.
Firefighters, rescue workers, and others exposed to smoke regularly are also at risk of long-term lung, heart, and cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Chanarit recommends that these individuals use respiratory protection equipment and undergo regular health assessments.