Nitrogen dioxide poisoning is a cause of upper airway reactivity and lung injury. Nitrogen dioxide is produced from burning fossil fuel. Ambient nitrogen dioxide is produced through automobile traffic and industrial processes. Chronic exposure to high ambient levels may contribute to reactive airway diseases and reduced lung function. Of more concern is acute exposure to very high levels of nitrogen dioxide, typically through occupational exposure or automobile fires. Effects of such exposure can range from sore throat and burning eyes to bronchospasm and pulmonary edema.

Treatment involves supportive measures, including supplemental oxygen and intubation in severe cases. Patients can develop interstitial lung disease or bronchiolitis obliterans after an episode of nitrogen dioxide poisoning.