HealthTree Blog

If you come from a home of smokers or you frequent places that are smoky, you may be at higher risk for sinus problems such as sinusitis according to a new study.

While researchers know that secondhand smoke can have detrimental effects on lungs and lead to cancer, the impact that it has on people’s sinus’ haven’t been exclusively studied until now.

According to the research, people who were exposed to secondhand smoke had an increased risk for sinusitis. Speculation on why this is comes from the study’s author, Dr. C. Martin Tammemagi. It’s seems as though the smoke changes the lining of the nasal passages, which allows allergens to pass into the body. With over exposure of allergens, the immune system becomes weak and that is how people begin feeling sick.

How Society Is Helping

With more public places around the country banning smoking, these ill effects of secondhand smoke may begin to decrease. Not only will employees of these establishments benefit but patrons will as well.

The problem lies in homes where people smoke around children and other family members. Suggesting that a family member not smoke while others are in the home can offend the smoker and cause family problems. It may be helpful to show these secondhand smoke findings to a loved one in order to inform him/her about how it affects the people around him/her. If all else fails, avoid the smoker as much as possible and/or increase ventilation in the area as much as possible.

Photo: Vanessa Pike-Russell