Second-hand smoke has to be the most painful thing to happen to you because someone else is inflicting harm on themselves, but you suffer the consequences along with them. It is an unfortunate situation especially if you’re someone who can’t tolerate the smell of tobacco.
By definition, second-hand smoke is the smoke from tobacco products that you unintentionally breathe by being near a smoker, states the Cleveland Clinic. “For example, at parties or public gatherings, you might mingle with people who smoke. You may not feel any changes, but breathing secondhand smoke can affect your health.”
How dangerous is being exposed to tobacco smoke? Multiple health publications state that there are several effects that smokers should be aware of so that they refrain from endangering those around them.
Triggers asthma: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that secondhand smoke can lead to asthma attacks, respiratory infections, and other health issues in children. It is further mentioned that exposure to secondhand smoke also increases the risk of pneumonia, bronchitis, middle ear disease, and slowed lung growth. “Secondhand smoke can trigger an asthma attack in a child. Children with asthma who are around secondhand smoke have more severe and frequent asthma attacks. A severe asthma attack can put a child’s life in danger,” highlights the above-mentioned source.
Increases risks of stroke and heart disease: The above source reveals that secondhand smoke can lead to heart disease and stroke. “Adults who do not smoke and are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their risk of developing coronary heart disease by 25–30%,” and they “increase their risk of stroke by 20−30%.” The publication mentions that even brief exposure can damage blood vessel linings and make blood platelets stickier, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
Endangers pet health: According to the National Health Service, smoking around pets poses a significant threat to their health, “Over 7,000 harmful chemicals are found in smoke, with 70 known to directly cause cancer. These pose a threat to all kinds of pets including dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, and even fish.”
Endangers pregnant women: Being exposed to second-hand smoke while pregnant puts the baby at risk as they are exposed to harmful chemicals, potentially leading to health issues like miscarriage, premature birth, lower birth weight, SIDS, learning problems, and ADHD, states the Healthy Children publication.
Also see: Is vaping safer than smoking?
