Smoking is one of the hardest addictions to break, according to the American Heart Association. Cigarettes cause an immediate reaction in the body that stimulates certain chemicals in the brain, increasing the possibility of an addiction to nicotine. Quitting often triggers side effects, ranging from mood swings to depression. Though cigarettes are hard to give up, it is necessary for long-term health and well-being.
Health Issues
Many health issues stem from smoking. Smoking causes the arteries to narrow, which causes a short-term increase in blood pressure, heart rate and the flow of blood from the heart. The carbon monoxide produced can damage the inner walls of the arteries, which increases fatty buildup over time. The likelihood of blood clots is also increased, all of which leads to higher incidences of heart disease.
Cigarettes are also the number-one cause of lung cancer and are also linked with cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, pancreas, cervix, stomach and some leukemias, reports the American Cancer Society.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Once cigarettes are removed, the body goes through withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety and irritability. Other possible symptoms include sleep disturbances, trouble concentrating, headaches, increased appetite, weight gain and constipation.
Ways To Quit
Fortunately, there are many approaches to giving up smoking. One of the most common is to use nicotine-replacement therapy, in forms such as gum, sprays, patches or lozenges. These products contain nicotine but not the other harmful chemicals found in cigarettes.
Bupropion Hcl, sold as Zyban and Wellbutrin, is a prescription medication that can reduce symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Because the medication is an antidepressant, you should use caution when using it in combination with other medications or supplements.
The American Cancer Society also notes that hypnosis, acupuncture, low-level laser therapy, supplements and herbs have been used successfully by some to quit, but they have not been scientifically proven to work.
Success Rates
The American Cancer Society notes that about 4 to 7 percent of people successfully quit smoking on any given attempt without medicines or other help. Of those who use medicines to help them quit, about 25 to 33 percent stay smoke-free for more than six months. Some evidence shows that combining therapies or using supportive therapies increases the chances of successfully quitting.
It takes an average of five to eight attempts to finally quit smoking, suggests Adam Liss, a tobacco treatment specialist with Cape Stress Reduction & Optimal Health.
Considerations
It is not easy to quit smoking. Some experts argue it is better to gradually taper off cigarettes, while others say it is best to quit cold turkey. Due to the large number and likelihood of withdrawal symptoms, outlining a plan of action--including picking a quit day, avoiding temptation and setting up fulfilling alternatives to smoking--increases your chances of success.
