Secondhand Smoke May Increase the Risk of Sleep Apnea in Children

Secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, hundreds of which are toxic, and 70 of which are carcinogenic. Clearly, individuals who smoke should be careful to minimize their loved ones’ exposure to tobacco smoke. It is especially important to protect children. Among the other risks posed by secondhand smoke, there is now research to indicate that it might increase the risk of a sleep disorder. Let’s talk about the possible connection between secondhand smoke and sleep apnea in Melbourne.

Secondhand Smoke and Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing throughout the night. It occurs when tissues in the throat block the upper airway. OSA is relatively rare in children (occurring in only 4% of them), but it is nothing to be taken lightly. Left untreated, OSA can have severe short-term and long-term health consequences.

A study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology found a strong correlation between an increased risk of severe sleep apnea in children and secondhand smoke. This remained true even after the researchers adjusted for other OSA risk factors in the study’s participants, such as body mass index, race, and estimated household income.

Does Secondhand Smoke Actually Cause Severe OSA in Children?

Secondhand smoke is known to cause inflammation, and it can irritate the respiratory tract. These factors make it entirely possible that it can worsen the severity of OSA. However, it is important not to make assumptions.

The study mentioned above found correlation between secondhand smoke and severe OSA in children; it did not firmly establish causation. Therefore, while it is reasonable to think that the secondhand smoke was directly responsible for the severe OSA, there is not yet firm evidence to support such a conclusion.

Is Your Child Suffering from OSA?

All parents should be aware of possible signs of OSA in their children, especially if someone in the household is a smoker. Here are some indications to watch out for:

• You notice that your child sometimes stops breathing while they are asleep.
• Your child frequently snores.
• Your child always seems tired, despite going to bed and waking up at a reasonable hour.
• Your child’s school performance is suffering, and they have difficulty concentrating.
• Your child often wets their bed or suffers from sleep terrors.

If you believe your child has OSA, a sleep test can confirm the diagnosis. Then, you can consider treatment options. Of course, ending the child’s exposure to secondhand smoke may help. A custom oral appliance that is designed to keep their airway open during sleep might also be necessary.

Secondhand smoke is dangerous for children and could adversely affect the quality of their sleep. Remaining alert for signs of OSA in your little one could help them get timely treatment.

Meet the Sleep Apnea Expert

Dr. Kenneth Mogell has spent decades in the field of dentistry. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, he has committed much of his career to learning the intricacies of how to address OSA via oral appliance therapy. If you are concerned that someone in your family may be suffering from this serious condition, Dr. Mogell would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our Melbourne office at 321-313-5350.