If you smoke or are exposed to passive smoke, you increase the risk of asthma attack and may permanently damage your airways. Avoidance of passive and active smoking is the most important control measure for both adults and children with asthma.
At least 75% of people with asthma become wheezy in a smoky room. It has been shown that children with asthma whose parents smoke have more asthma episodes than children whose parents don’t smoke. You put your children at risk of asthma if you smoke around them or during pregnancy.
Smoking also increases the risk of developing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a term used to describe any one of a combination of chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic asthma.
Information and advice on quitting smoking
- Call the National Smokers’ Quitline 1800 201 203
- Email support@quit.ie
- Visit QUIT.IE