Bronchitis and Pneumonia: Children exposed to cigarette smoke are more likely to develop bronchitis and pneumonia. This is due to the irritants in tobacco smoke, which can impair the immune system and damage the respiratory tract.
Bronchiolitis: Infants are particularly vulnerable to bronchiolitis, a common viral infection of the small airways in the lungs.
Asthma: Children exposed to tobacco smoke are at a higher risk of developing asthma. For those who already have asthma, exposure to smoke can exacerbate symptoms, leading to more frequent and severe asthma attacks.
Cystic Fibrosis: For children with cystic fibrosis, secondhand smoke can worsen respiratory symptoms and lead to more frequent pulmonary infections.
Reduced Lung Function: Chronic exposure to secondhand smoke during childhood can lead to long-term reductions in lung function and increase the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) later in life.
Increased Morbidity: The cumulative effects of respiratory infections and chronic conditions can lead to higher morbidity.
Allergic Rhinitis: Secondhand smoke can increase the risk of developing allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): There is evidence to suggest that exposure to tobacco smoke may increase the risk of developing eczema, a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin.
Food Allergies: Some studies have suggested a potential link between exposure to cigarette smoke and an increased risk of developing food allergies.
Beyond SIDS, infants exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased risk of sudden unexplained infant death.
Parents and caregivers should be encouraged to quit smoking. SmokeFreeMe has numerous resources and support systems that are available to help individuals quit, including counseling, medication, and support groups. Quitting smoking not only benefits the smoker’s health but also significantly reduces the health risks for their infants.
Educating family members and friends about the dangers of secondhand smoke is crucial. Encourage them to avoid smoking around infants and to support the creation of a smoke-free environment.
By taking these steps, parents and caregivers can significantly reduce the impact of smoking on infants, ensuring a healthier, smoke-free environment for their growth and development.
Got Questions? Call us 24/7
info@smokefreeme.co.uk
Guzel & Co Ltd, Spaces Finsbury Park
17 City North Place, London, N4 3FU
Got Questions? Call us 24/7
info@smokefreeme.co.uk
Guzel & Co Ltd, Spaces Finsbury Park 17 City North Place, London, N4 3FU