Why does edema occur rapidly in the upper airways during burn injuries?

Edema occurs rapidly in the upper airways during burn injuries primarily due to the highly vascular structure of the airway tissues. The airway is composed of a rich supply of blood vessels, which makes it susceptible to rapid fluid accumulation when injured. When a burn occurs, especially in areas exposed to heat or chemicals, the local inflammatory response is triggered. This response results in the dilation of blood vessels and increased permeability, allowing plasma to leak into surrounding tissues. Because the upper airway has such a dense network of blood vessels, this leads to significant swelling (edema) in a short period of time.

The rapid onset of edema in the upper airways can create a critical airway obstruction, impacting breathing and leading to potential complications if not promptly managed. Understanding this mechanism is essential for recognizing the severity of airway-related injuries in burn patients and guiding appropriate medical intervention.