Cigar smoking may make you think of gentlemen's clubs, refinement and a true art form; however the truth is that cigar smoking causes many health risks and dangers. Like cigarettes, cigars contain large amounts of nicotine, having a direct effect on muscle health. Quitting smoking now can significantly reduce your risks of these health concerns and ensure muscle health for years to come.
Nicotine
When dealing with cigars it is important to remember that tobacco is the main ingredient and where you find tobacco products you find nicotine. Nicotine is a yellow, tarry substance naturally produced by tobacco. Nicotine is the main chemical in cigars that prompts addiction, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, or NIDA. One cigarette contains 10 mg of nicotine with one large cigar containing 10 times that amount, leaving you with 200 mg of nicotine.
Effects on Muscles
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out that through cigar smoking, your muscles are deprived of much needed oxygen. Therefore, athletes and workout enthusiasts tire easier. This also holds true for the average person. Smoking cigars will cause your muscles to tire easily by simply doing your daily routine. The heart is also at risk of this oxygen deprivation. According to the American Cancer Society, smokers are twice as likely to die of heart attack than non-smokers.
Emphysema
Emphysema is defined by Emphysema.org as a chronic lung disease that occurs when the lung's elastic fibers break down, making it harder to breathe as possible air intake into the lung's air sacs is severely limited. Emphysema can cause loss of appetite, fatigue and even death. Cigar smoke is directly linked to this condition as it prevents bacteria and other debris from being removed by the lungs and weakening the elastic fibers within the air sacs. What results is inadequate lung function and the possibility of intensive medical treatment.
Cessation
Smoking cessation groups and medications are available to help you successfully stop smoking. Speak with your doctor about these options. According to NIDA, close to 35 million individuals attempt to quit smoking cold-turkey, only to relapse within a week. Smoking cessation helps prevent relapse while offering support when cravings hit the hardest.
