The effects of tobacco smoke on the respiratory system include: irritation of the trachea (windpipe) and larynx (voice box) reduced lung function and breathlessness due to swelling and narrowing of the lung airways and excess mucus in the lung passages.
A healthy respiratory system is designed to protect the lungs from occasional inhalation of smoke, dust and other harmful substances. Cigarette smoking not only damages its protective mechanism but continues to assault it with harmful material daily. Secondhand smoke carries similar dangers.
Efficient breathing delivers oxygen for cell growth and vital functions throughout the human body. Lungs, blood vessels and airways beset by health problems can’t sustain this equilibrium. Eventually, the respiratory effects of cigarette smoke will affect a person’s overall physical condition.