Damage to the oropharynx, nasopharynx, trachea, bronchi, or lungs from exposure to smoke or heated gas. Inhalation injury is a potentially life-threatening complication of exposure to smoke and fire. It is often present in those who have suffered facial burns. Early complications of inhalation injury include bronchospasm, airway edema, airway obstruction, and respiratory failure. Late complications include hospital-acquired pneumonias and other respiratory illnesses. Patients suspected of inhalation injury should be promptly and repeatedly assessed to make certain they have an open airway. Emergent tracheal intubation is used to prevent respiratory failure.