How to Quit Smoking
The effects of smoking on your health
Although the health risks associated with smoking are well known, almost 45 million Americans continue to smoke. Quitting smoking is, without a doubt, the single best thing you can do for your health. Every time you smoke a cigarette, you inhale more than 4,000 chemicals. Below is just a partial list of health complications in which smoking is a key player.
- Cancer
- Respiratory problems
- Heart and circulatory problems
- Bones problems
- Oral problems
- Eye problems
- Other problems
Your options for quitting
There are many tools available to smokers who want to quit. The more options you use, the better your chances of success. As you review your options, keep in mind how well each will fit into your lifestyle and which ones are suitable for you. Your doctor can answer your questions and, if needed, write you a prescription.
- Cold turkey
- Nicotine replacement
- Bupropion (Zyban, Wellbutrin)
- Varenicline (Chantix)
- Nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor)
- Alternative treatments
The benefits of quitting
Congratulate yourself for taking the necessary steps to be smoke-free. By eliminating tobacco from your life, you are doing something wonderful for your health and the health of those around you. Although you may not initially notice them, the health benefits of smoking cessation will begin within hours of when you crush out your last cigarette. Here are some of the good things you will be doing for your body:
- In 20 minutes, your blood pressure and your pulse return towards normal.
- In 8 hours, the levels of carbon monoxide and oxygen in your blood return towards normal.
- In 24 hours, your risk of heart attack is lower.
- In 48 hours, your senses of smell and taste improve.
- In 2 weeks to 3 months, your circulation improves, and your lung function increases up to 10%.
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