Tobacco smoke is harmful in many ways, but it is especially risky for people with asthma. Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes the airways to become inflamed and swollen when exposed to irritating substances. Tobacco smoke is one of the most powerful triggers of this condition because it can physically damage the lungs.
Airway Damage
Tiny hair-like projections in the airways called cilia normally clean the lungs of fluids and other foreign particles. Substances from tobacco smoke settles in the airway lining and damages the cilia, causing fluids and other irritants to build up. The lungs react to the irritation by producing even more mucus, become more swollen and narrow, and thus exacerbating the symptoms of asthma, describes the Cleveland Clinic.
Severe Symptoms
Smoking triggers a flare-up of symptoms, including more severe cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. People with asthma who continue to smoke more likely experience more frequent and severe attacks. Asthma symptoms are also harder to control in people who smoke.
Effect on Medication
Controller-type of asthma medications such as inhaled corticosteroids reduce the inflammation and swelling that causes asthma, while rescue medications like short-acting bronchodilators open the airways and make breathing easier during an episode. According to TeensHealth from Nemours, smoking can undo the effect of any controller medicine and force the person to use rescue medicines more often.
Quality of Life
Smokers with asthma may experience more severe coughing at night and have less quality sleep than those who don't smoke, notes TeensHealth from Nemours. Because of more severe flare-ups, smokers are also more likely to have frequent visits to the emergency room. Smoking also prevents people with asthma from engaging in sports and other physical activities.
