Secondhand smoke has serious health side effects, particularly for children. It may decrease the sense of taste and smell, cause allergies and increase respiratory problems. It also plays a role in causing strep throat and may increase the duration of the illness. Parents who smoke should quit and, if they can't, should avoid smoking around their children.
Decreased Immunity
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. A person must be exposed to this bacteria to develop strep throat, but not all people develop strep after exposure. Secondhand smoke decreases immune function by interfering with white blood cell functioning and forcing the body to counteract the effects of smoke rather than fight off illness, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. When children are exposed to secondhand smoke, their systems are poorly equipped to fight off Streptococcus, and they might develop strep throat.
Slower Healing
The body heals best when properly nourished and when kept away from environmental toxins, such as secondhand smoke. Children who already have strep throat are subjected to constant irritation of the delicate tissue in the throat and mouth. This can make strep throat last longer than it otherwise would.
Oral Health Problems
Smoking is strongly correlated with gum, throat and mouth problems, according to the "American Medical Association Family Medical Guide." People who smoke weaken the tissue and cells in their mouths, causing gum disease, throat and sinus problems and other illnesses. Children exposed to excessive secondhand smoke might suffer similar effects, especially in the respiratory system, according to pediatrician William Sears. Their weakened throats are more susceptible to strep throat and illnesses that mimic its symptoms.
Prevention
The single best thing parents can do to improve their child's health is stop smoking. Contact a doctor, who may be able to prescribe medications that make quitting easier. Some people find that support groups are helpful in quitting. If you are unable to stop, avoid smoking around your child. Children are more likely to smoke if they see their parents doing so, Sears explains. When you do smoke, only smoke outside in a well-ventilated area, and never smoke in your car if your child also travels in that car.
References
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, M.D., et al.; 2011
- Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids: Smoking's Effects on the Body
- "American Medical Association Family Medical Guide"; American Medical Association; 2004
- University of Maryland Center for Substance Abuse Research: Tobacco
