How can the smell of cigarette smoke impact one's health?

Question

Hello doctor,

I recently shifted to a new house which I got at a lower price but the place stinks and the walls are brown-yellow. I have to get them painted soon. So the thing that is concerning is the stink of smoke. And I feel the walls and carpet have completely absorbed so much smoke and nicotine like someone smoking a couple of cigarettes. I want to know if this can be as harmful as actual smoking. Also, can these have a persistent effect on me if I do not change the walls and the carpet? I am a complete non-smoker. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The harmful effects of smoking are primarily by direct smoking and by passive smoking while in contact with smoking individuals. The stink of smoke may not be causing damage to the lungs or any part of the body. However, taking a very conservative approach, you could take preventive measures including a change of surroundings- clean and repaint, do a preemptive set of tests such as lung function, X-ray chest, echocardiogram, liver and renal function blood tests to check your health status at entry and maybe annually as a part of the annual health checkup to keep a track of any damaging effects.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.