Could smoke from a wod burning stove be an irratant?? - 1252576

dawnd
Posts:13

Does anyone think being exposed to smoke from doing a wood burning stove could cause irritation in cells similar to cigarette smoking. My husband has fired a wood burning stove for over 30 years 2-3 times a day throughout our cold winters in MN. It not only heats our house but also a huge building next store so there is a lot of wood thrown in. (I know from times I have tried to help out but usually end up burning the ends of my hair.) If there is any chance it could of caused his rare cancer since he has never smoked or drank? I sure would hate to keep exposing him to an irritate.

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Reply # - January 14, 2013, 12:12 PM

catdander
Posts:

dawnd, I'm sure Dr. West will comment later on but I want to let you know I can't send this question out to our specialists because it addresses causality instead of treatment or symptom management in which they are specialized.

On a personal note, I've been struggling with a chronic cough since a bout of pertussis over a year ago and I can assure you smoke including from wood fires and cooking fumes cause triggers for me.

The only info on Grace I was able to find or remember (not to be confused with an exhaustive search) is associated with irritants that cause less positive results to treatment and causes for coughs.
You may need to log off to access this link depending on browser, http://cancergrace.org/search-results?q=lung%20irritants

Reply # - January 14, 2013, 10:19 PM

Dr West
Posts: 4735

I think it's a possibility, but it's not a well-studied association. So as far as potential causes, the answer to almost any remotely plausible question about a possible factor is going to be, "sure, it's possible", but you aren't inhaling the smoke from a wood burning fire directly from your lips into your lungs multiple times per day. I don't think it would pose the same risk as smoking cigarettes on a regular basis.

-Dr. West

Reply # - January 15, 2013, 05:19 AM

dawnd
Posts: 13

Thanks for the reply. I am just trying to figure out if this is something that should be avoided for him. Not that I want to do it, if you saw the wood shed and all the wood that has been used all ready. It would definitely get me in shape.

Reply # - January 15, 2013, 10:51 AM

catdander
Posts:

While we can't say what he should or should not do I'd say if he's able to do such a chore without respirating problems or too much fatigue or pain then he's probably getting a good workout and well worth it. In other words it's good to hear he's working at such a pace. And if he and you are worried about the exhaust from the fire he could wear a mask. My husband used to be a cabinet maker and he typically wore a variety of masks throughout a project, including the little white disposable ones worn in hospitals or even a kerchief tied over his nose and mouth. It doesn't take much to stop at some of those particles from getting in the airways.

All best,

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