The idea of secondhand smoke isn’t exactly new. Since the 1970’s, scientists have been confident that simply inhaling the vapor produced by nearby smokers can have negative effects on someone’s health. But research is never truly complete, and recent studies have linked secondhand inhalation to an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in kids between the ages of 3 and 18.
Needless to say, this discovery has brought an age-old topic back to life! To learn more about what the research says, keep reading.
What is OSA?
OSA is essentially a sleep condition. Patients that struggle with it typically have inflamed or overrelaxed oral tissue that blocks their airway when they lay down. This makes it harder for their body to get enough oxygen, to the point where their brain jolts them awake and interrupts their sleep cycle.
Because they’re not able to reach full REM sleep, patients with OSA experience increased fatigue, and are at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, stroke, and other serious health issues.
Secondhand Smoke and OSA in Young People
Since children and young adults are still developing in many ways, it’s reasonable to assume they’d be more sensitive to harmful toxins in the air. Indeed, researchers found that kids between the ages of 3 and 18 who were exposed to secondhand smoke were not only more likely to develop OSA, but also more likely to experience more severe symptoms.
If you smoke, it’s a good idea to restrict your tobacco usage to times when children and teens aren’t around. Plus, it’s simply a common courtesy to limit secondhand smoke inhalation! Changing your habits might not be easy, but it’s worth making an effort to protect other people’s health and wellness.
OSA Symptoms in Children and Teens
It’s important to note that OSA can present itself a bit differently in kids than it does in adults. Here are some signs that your young loved one might need a sleep test:
- They’re always tired and can’t seem to get enough rest
- They can’t focus or frequently feel “foggy”
- They’re struggling in school
- They snore
- They often breathe with their mouth open
- They toss and turn in bed
- They experience nocturia or night terrors
A good night’s sleep is incredibly important for healthy, happy living. Try to avoid exposing these vulnerable ages to secondhand smoke, and if you notice one or more of these symptoms, visit your local sleep medicine dentist!
About the Practice
Dr. Kyle Williams is our board-certified sleep medicine dentist at Beck Dental Care of Columbia. He has extensive experience treating patients of all ages and needs, so if you or a loved one is struggling with OSA, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Williams and our team for an assessment and treatment! To schedule your consultation today, call 931-388-8452.