What Causes Burning In Lungs And Throat After Inhaling Chlorine Powder?

Posted on Sat, 16 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 16 Jul 2016 Answered on

Tue, 2 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I was combining chlorine powder to consolidate from one container to another. This was in a dark confined area and I could not see the chlorine dust which must have been billowing up. I inhaled a good amount, within seconds, my lungs began to burn, I was trying to cough but couldn't get enough air. I have Ventolin and took two puffs. It has been 20 minutes, my throat and lungs are still burning. I did a pulse/ox, oxygen is 92, pulse 108. Is there anything I can do for myself at home?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Avoid stress and tension. Take deep breathing of fresh air.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
First of all no need to worry much. So avoid stress and tension, be relax and calm.
Take deep breath of fresh air.
You will mostly improve with this in 5-6 hours.
You can also take simple anti inflammatory drug like paracetamol.
Do warm water gargles 5-6 times a day.
You can take ventorlin inhaler as and when needed.
Don't worry, you will be alright.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar