From the Research
Inhaling jet fuel is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention, as it can cause respiratory irritation, chemical pneumonitis, and potential lung damage, with symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, dizziness, and confusion, and treatment typically involves oxygen therapy, monitoring of respiratory function, and supportive care 1.
Effects of Jet Fuel Inhalation
The effects of jet fuel inhalation can be severe and long-lasting, with exposure to even low concentrations of jet fuel vapors potentially causing detrimental effects on the immune system, including decreases in viable immune cell numbers and immune organ weights, and suppressed immune function 2.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of jet fuel inhalation may include:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion Treatment typically involves:
- Oxygen therapy
- Monitoring of respiratory function
- Supportive care
- Bronchodilators like albuterol may be administered to help with breathing
- Corticosteroids might be used to reduce inflammation
Prevention and Precautions
To minimize exposure to jet fuel combustion products, air medical personnel should avoid ground power unit-assisted dual-engine starts and close the hangar door prior to start 3.
Long-term Effects
Long-term exposure to jet fuel can lead to chronic respiratory issues, neurological problems, and increased cancer risk, so even brief exposures should be taken seriously, and the immune system may be the most sensitive indicator of toxicological damage due to jet fuel exposure 4.