Authors present the inhalation trauma as a current risk. Inhalation of noxae causes irritation of an upper respiratory tract and a mucose membrane of bronchi in particular. The substances, which are less water-soluble, may also significantly harm lung parenchyma. The most serious form of this kind of damage is a syndrome of respiratory distress in adults the basic characteristics of which is presented in the paper. These symptoms of irritation of an upper respiratory tract, bronchospasm and respectively symptoms of the damage of lung parenchyma are the most prevalent clinical symptoms. Hypoxia develops and its severity is related to the extent of the damage. The treatment is not specific. It includes taking a casualty out of the risk and application of oxygen. In case of deterioration of the status, the orotracheal intubation and artificial lung ventilation are necessary.

        Key words: inhalation trauma, working environment, toxic oedema of lungs, ARDS