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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.
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