WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is secondhand smoke exposure? Secondhand smoke exposure occurs when someone breathes in smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or pipe. The smoke may come directly from a lit cigarette, cigar, or pipe or be exhaled by someone who is smoking. Particles in smoke can be found in the air and in dust. The particles can linger on household surfaces, such as counters, carpets, or walls. They also linger on clothes and skin and inside your car. They can stay in your home for weeks or even months after smoking has occurred. Is secondhand smoke exposure more dangerous for children than for adults? Children's bodies are still growing and are more likely to be harmed by secondhand smoke. Children breathe in more air than adults do. This means their bodies are exposed to more harmful chemicals in the smoke. Small children also crawl on the floor and put objects in their mouths. What are the risks of secondhand smoke exposure in children? Secondhand smoke contains chemicals that can increase your child's risk for serious health conditions: - Your child's risk for asthma is increased. If he already has asthma, his attacks may be worse or occur more often.
- Your child may develop lung problems. His lungs may not grow normally. He may have wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. He also may have lung infections, such as bronchitis. These problems can lead to other lung problems when your child is an adult.
- Your child may have more ear infections. He also may have fluid in his ears more often.
- Your infant is at greater risk for SIDS. This is when an infant suddenly dies for no known reason during his first year of life.
- Your child is at greater risk for cancer. His risk increases for lung cancer and certain childhood cancers, such as leukemia. He is also at greater risk for developing cancer as an adult.
What can I do to help prevent secondhand smoke exposure? - Quit smoking. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
- Do not smoke near your child. Do not smoke anywhere near your child. This includes your home or car. Your child is not protected from secondhand smoke if you only smoke in 1 room. He is also not protected if you smoke inside your house or car with the windows open. Do not allow family and friends to smoke near your child.
- Do not allow your child to be in places that allow smoking. Teach your child to avoid secondhand smoke.
Where can I find support and more information? - American Lung Association
1301 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington , DC 20004
Phone: 1- 202 - 785-3355
Phone: 1- 800 - 548-8252
Web Address: www.lung.org
- Smokefree.gov
Phone: 1- 800 - 784-8669
Web Address: www.smokefree.gov
When should I seek immediate care? - Your child has shortness of breath.
When should I contact my child's healthcare provider? - Your child is coughing, wheezing, or sneezing more than normal.
- Your child's asthma symptoms have gotten worse.
- Your child has a fever.
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