Symptoms of wildfire smoke inhalation can include: coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness, respiratory tract and eye burning, chest pain, dizziness or lightheadedness. Air pollution from wildfires can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger attacks. Children with asthma, allergies, or other chronic health conditions may have more trouble breathing when smoke or ash is present. Even children without asthma could experience respiratory symptoms, resulting in school absences and other limitations of normal childhood activities. Fires may leave large amounts of ash and dust contaminated with harmful chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and/or lead. Wildfire smoke can persist for days or even months, depending on the extent of the wildfire.