need help!!88 chevy nova

When we start the car there is white smoke and heavy exhaust fumes. What is wrong??? We appreciate any info. Thanks a million!

White smoke means coolant is entering the combustion chamber(s). It could be as little as a blown head gasket, or as bad as a cracked block. Pull the cylinder head off and take a look. If you can't do this yourself have someone else or a shop do it.

Thank you so much for responding and having helpful info for me!! I will take your advice, as I can remove the cylinder and look (I may be a girl, but I am better with cars than most guys, and I love it!!) Thanks, Schellie