Smoking is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Smoking is associated with a variety of negative health effects and can lead to serious diseases like cancer, emphysema, and even complications related to pregnancy. Thankfully, it is possible to quit smoking once and for all. With the right support network, it gets easier with time.
What are the negative effects of smoking?
There so many negative effects of smoking. Some of them are listed below: - 10% higher risk of death - Overall, tobacco use is the leading cause of death.
- Blood clots
Smoking also increases your risk of blood clots, especially if you are taking birth control pills.
- Cancer
Cancer is one of the major effects of smoking. It leads to cancers of the lungs, bladder, mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney, and liver.
- COPD
Smoking can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects your ability to breathe.
- Decreased lung capacity
Smoking causes decreased lung capacity, which can lead to early death.
- Emphysema
Emphysema is also one of the negative effects of smoking. It is a lung disease that may damage your lungs.
- Heart disease
Smoking is also a major cause of heart disease, which can lead to a stroke or heart attack.
- Pregnancy complications
Smoking can lead to complications during pregnancy, like a miscarriage and premature birth.
Side effects of smoking on lungs
There are many side effects of smoking on the lungs. Smoking may reduce your lung capacity which affects your breathing ability. Smoking may decrease your capacity lungs which can lead to early death. Smoking is also a cause of lung cancer which can lead to death. Did you know that regular smoking may lead to lung cancer and completely damages your lungs which can lead to an early death?
How to quit smoking?
One of the best ways to quit smoking is to set a quit date. That’s the day you will stop using nicotine and cigarettes. Here are some ways to quit smoking:
- Understand why you smoke
Start by understanding why you smoke. Are you trying to cope with work-related anxiety or a relationship problem? If so, you can substitute the act of smoking with other things like breathing exercises, yoga, or drinking water.
- Join a support group
Joining a support group can help you stay motivated as you quit smoking. You can also check out online support groups for more ways to deal with cravings.
Build a support network
Having a strong support network is one of the best ways to quit smoking. This can include your family, friends, and even online communities. Here are some ways you can build a support network:
- Talk to your family - While it’s great to have support from people you don’t know, it’s also important to open up to your family members. - Join a face-to-face support group - If you prefer joining a face-to-face support group, there are many online and offline options for you.
- Find a friend to quit with - Having a friend to quit with can make it more fun and easier. You can motivate each other and share tips on how to quit.
Use nicotine replacements
Nicotine replacements are methods used to reduce or eliminate nicotine cravings. Some of them include nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, sprays, inhalers, and tablets. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) as a way to stop smoking. It’s important to know that NRT is only meant to stop nicotine cravings. It doesn’t actually end your dependence on nicotine. If you stop using NRT, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. NRT is safe to use, but it works best when combined with other methods to quit smoking. You can also use therapy to quit smoking. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help you understand the reasons why you started smoking and how to deal with the urges to smoke. CBT is a short-term therapy that can be done over the phone or online.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can help you manage the withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking. It can also keep you from gaining weight due to smoking cessation. Exercising regularly can also help improve your overall health. It can improve your mood and reduce anxiety, which can sometimes lead to smoking. Some ways to exercise more include joining a gym, taking a yoga class, or simply walking outside. Keep in mind that you have to be more active in order to quit smoking. Slacking on exercising when you stop smoking can lead to gaining weight and making it harder to quit the next time.
Conclusion
There are many ways to quit smoking, but the most important thing is that you do it. Quitting isn’t easy, which is why you have to be prepared and willing to put in the work. It’s best to set a quit date and create a plan to help you succeed. Having a support network and using nicotine replacements like nicotine gum can make the journey easier. Exercise regularly and be prepared for the withdrawal symptoms. With time, you can reverse the damage caused by smoking and lead a healthier life.
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