What Does Smoking Have To Do With My Child's Asthma?

Children in homes with smokers have more asthma symptoms and asthma problems than children who do not live with smokers. These children also have more ear infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung infections.

Cigarette smoke has chemicals in it that irritate the inside of lungs and airways. When children are near cigarette smoke they may start to cough or wheeze. Also their noses may run or their eyes may water. Cigarette smoke is one of the biggest asthma triggers for children with asthma. It can be more harmful than pollen and trees. Cigarette smoke may cause other health problems for both the smoker and those nearby. It may cause lung cancer, mouth cancer, throat cancer, heart disease, strokes, and emphysema.

You can help your child by making your home and car smoke-free. If possible, any smokers in your home should quit. Smokers should never smoke indoors. And they should never smoke near people with asthma.

Your local health department has classes to help smokers quit. Talk with your doctor about what would be best for you and your family. For more information on smoking, call the American Lung Association at 363-2652 or the American Cancer Society at 584-6782.