How Does Secondhand Smoke Affect Someone Else's Health?

Smokers aren't the only ones affected by the toxins of cigarette smoke. When non-smokers are subjected to secondhand smoke they inevitably suffer the effects of passive smoke. Many people still do not realize the dangers associated with secondhand smoke. It is important to understand that secondhand smoke affects other people, children and even pets. Smokers tend to believe that they are only harming themselves. They must realize that everyone around them is also breathing in the smoke that they themselves inhale and exhale.

Second hand smoke affects the body in several ways. It can irritate the eyes causing them to become red, itchy and watery. The lining of the nasal passages can be irritated causing sneezing and runny nose. Secondhand smoke can cause the throat to become dry and irritated. Most non-smokers tend to cough when exposed to secondhand smoke. Although most people may not realize it, secondhand smoke even affects the taste buds diminishing the full flavor of food.

Secondhand smoke affects the heart and lungs. People who are often subjected to secondhand smoke are at a greater risk for developing heart disease and cancer. Secondhand smoke can cause chronic respiratory problems. People who suffer from asthma can easily have an asthma attack when exposed to secondhand smoke since the cigarette smoke often triggers asthma attacks. Secondhand smoke can also increase the symptoms of allergy sufferers causing excessive sneezing, coughing and wheezing.

Secondhand smoke can be even more dangerous to children. Children that are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to develop asthma and other allergies. They are also at an increased risk for illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Pregnant women who are exposed to secondhand smoke on a regular basis tend to deliver infants with a low birth weight. Secondhand smoke has also been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The bottom line is that secondhand smoke puts the health of children at risk.

Secondhand smoke even affects pets. Secondhand smoke irritates the eyes and noses of animals just as well as people. Perhaps your dog isn't getting a cold. He could be sneezing because of secondhand smoke if you have a smoker in the household. Secondhand smoke can cause respiratory infections in animals and cause other illness such as cancer and heart disease as well.

If you are a smoker try to be considerate of others. Remember that it's not just your health that will be affected. Don't smoke in the car with your children and step outside if you must smoke. You may feel that it's an inconvenience but the health of your child is more important. Consider your own health take steps towards quitting. See your physician for help.