Secondhand Smoke Linked to Childhood Sleep Apnea

Smoking isn’t good for your health or those around you, including your child. Research has found that inhaling smoke can lead to asthma attacks, respiratory infections, and ear infections, but those aren’t the only concerns. A recent study has found that secondhand smoke can lead to sleep apnea in children, a condition that causes frequent interruptions in breathing while sleeping. 

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes disturbances in breathing frequently throughout the night, depleting the body of oxygen. Although it is thought to only affect adults, children can have OSA, too. While it is often caused by large adenoids or tonsils, other factors can contribute to childhood OSA, like secondhand smoke. The interruptions in breathing can affect your child’s quality of life and health. In severe cases, there can be life-threatening complications.

Connection Between OSA and Secondhand Smoke

A recent study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology reported that children between the ages of 3 to 18 who were exposed to secondhand smoke had an increased risk of OSA when compared to those with no exposure. 

Generally, less than 4% of children suffer from OSA; however, results from a study involving 3776 children found the risk increases when exposed to cigarette smoke. 53.9% of the participants analyzed were exposed to secondhand smoke while 46.1% were not. Researchers found that those exposed had a 1.48 increase in the likeliness of having OSA. In addition, they were more likely to have a severe form of OSA. Without any treatment, children with OSA are at risk of failure to grow, heart problems, and even death. 

Symptoms of OSA in Children

Symptoms of sleep apnea in children can be difficult to detect because they can manifest differently than what is seen in adults. Common signs of OSA can include:

• Snoring
• Pauses in breathing
• Restless sleep
• Choking, coughing, or snorting while sleeping
• Mouth breathing
• Nighttime sweating
• Bedwetting
• Sleep terrors
• Poor school performance
• Difficulty paying attention
• Learning problems
• Behavioral problems
• Poor weight gain
• Hyperactivity

If your child exhibits any signs of OSA, only a medical professional can confirm a diagnosis through a sleep study. A special device will be used to monitor their vitals while they are asleep to look for any abnormalities. Based on the results of the study, they will inform you if any treatment is necessary. 

Protect Your Child from Secondhand Smoke

No one should have to struggle to breathe. It is best to kick the habit to ensure everyone in your home can breathe easier, so you all can sleep soundly. If you need help to kick the habit, tobaccofree.org provides tips and resources to break the addiction. 

About Dr. Stephen Dean

Dr. Dean earned his dental degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has pursued continuing education at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. He specializes in sleep apnea therapy using advanced solutions, like oral appliances. If your child has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, contact our office today to request a consultation.