Secondhand Smoke and Sleep Apnea in Children — What Is the Connection?

If you smoke, you are likely already aware that this habit is a danger to your own health. However, the risks of secondhand smoke do not always get the attention they deserve. Indeed, smoking could put your children at risk! Research even indicates that it is associated with a higher chance of a dangerous sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). How are these issues connected, and how can you help your precious young one get the sleep they need to be healthy and happy? This blog post provides useful information.

Secondhand Smoke and OSA

OSA is a condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, which occur when tissues in the throat block airflow. It is quite common among adults but relatively rare in younger patients.

However, according to findings published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, there is a strong link between secondhand smoke exposure and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among children ages 3 to 18.

The research showed that kids who were exposed to secondhand smoke not only had a higher likelihood of developing OSA but also tended to experience more severe symptoms compared to children who were not exposed. Importantly, the study identified secondhand smoke as an independent factor affecting the severity of OSA, even after accounting for other variables such as BMI and other issues that can contribute to OSA.

Why does secondhand smoke contribute to OSA in children? One possible explanation is that the smoke can irritate and inflame oral tissues, leading to swelling and discomfort. Furthermore, nicotine may play a role by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which increases the chance of airway obstruction during sleep.

Does Your Child Have OSA?

All parents should be aware of potential signs of OSA in their children, but if someone in your household smokes, extra diligence is important. Here are some signs to look out for:

· Loud or frequent snoring

· Pauses in breathing, gasping, or choking sounds at night

· Restless sleep or frequent awakenings

· Daytime sleepiness or trouble concentrating

· Behavioral issues or irritability

· Bedwetting in school-aged children

Help Your Child Get the Rest They Need

If you smoke, your efforts to quit could reduce your child’s OSA symptoms! Speak to your doctor about provisions that could help you kick the habit once and for all. Other steps you should take to improve the quality of your child’s sleep include:

· Talk to their doctor about their symptoms and ask if they need a sleep test.

· Consider professional OSA treatment options, such as a custom oral appliance from a dentist.

· Only smoke outside the home. (Thirdhand smoke is not great for kids’ health, but it is not as bad as secondhand exposure.)

· Address other issues that might be contributing to your child’s OSA. For example, things like a deviated septum, chronic nasal congestion, and obesity can all contribute to nighttime breathing disruptions.

Secondhand smoke can contribute to OSA in kids! Do your best to kick the habit and implement other measures that will help your child sleep soundly.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Jonathan Held is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. He and our team provide custom oral appliance therapy for patients from Sedona, Flagstaff, Prescott Valley, Kingman, and the surrounding areas. If you have concerns about your child’s nighttime breathing, we would be happy to advise you on your next steps. Contact us at 928-227-3024.