What health effects can result from exposure to smoke?

Exposure to smoke can lead to a variety of serious health effects, particularly on the respiratory system. Severe coughing and lung damage occur because smoke contains a range of harmful chemicals and particulate matter that can irritate the airways, leading to inflammation and difficulty in breathing. This irritation can escalate to conditions such as chronic bronchitis or even acute respiratory distress as the lungs struggle to recover from the exposure. Long-term exposure can result in more permanent damage, including reduced lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. Thus, severe coughing and lung damage are directly associated with inhaling smoke and highlight the importance of protective measures in environments where smoke exposure is possible.