Curious fire truck chasers should avoid watching chemical spills as industrial agents may cause pneumonitis. Treatment is focused on reducing symptoms. Oxygen therapy may be helpful. Corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation. The outcome depends on the chemical agent involved, severity of exposure, and whether the problem is acute or chronic .
Respiratory failure can occur.
This is an illustration of the major features of the lungs and bronchial tree. The inset is of the alveoli. They are the microscopic blood vessel-lined sacks in which oxygen and carbon dioxide gas are exchanged.