Tobacco claims about 500,000 lives annually, and is the single most avoidable cause of death. Tobacco smoke contains 11 human carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) and can have many health consequences. Quitting smoking is difficult because of the addiction that people may have developed to the nicotine found in the cigarettes. When you stop smoking, your body reacts to the lack of nicotine, and many withdrawal symptoms manifest. However, the benefits of quitting are tremendous and can be both short-term and long-term.
Withdrawal Symptons of Nicotine
Chronic smoking, and therefore chronic nicotine ingestion, can lead to physical dependence on cigarettes. Also, many people will begin to tolerate its effects on the body and the amount that they smoke will increase over time. Abrupt cessation of smoking for those who have developed dependence and tolerance will result in an array of withdrawal symptoms. These include anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, irritability, insomnia, hostility, increased appetite, weight gain and cravings for tobacco. Symptoms occur within 24 hours of smoking cessation and can last for a few days or a few weeks. Cravings may not go away for years. Nicotine replacement therapy, such as with nicotine gum or nicotine patches, can help in the treatment of tobacco addiction.
Immediate Health Benefits
Within two weeks of quitting, blood pressure and heart rate normalize, and the oxygen level in the blood increases. The lungs begin to clear out mucus, thereby improving lung function, and the sense of smell and taste improve as well. After three months, lung function increases up to 30 percent and circulation is greatly improved as well. The immune system also improves, making it easier to fight off disease. According to the New York Smoke Free fact sheet "It's Never Too Late to Stop Smoking," within nine months of quitting, "sinus congestion, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and phlegm production decreases." Lung cilia regain their normal function and the lungs are better able to clear out mucus and smoking debris. Furthermore, the skin will begin to look healthier and energy levels will increase.
Long-Term Health Benefits
One year after quitting smoking, the risk of having a heart attack reduces by 50 percent. After five years, the risk of having a stroke becomes equal to someone who has never smoked. After ten years smoke-free, lung cancer risk is reduced by 50 percent and the risk of other cancers, such as cancer of the mouth, throat and esophagus, are greatly reduced too.
References
- New York Smoke Free; Fact Sheet: It's Never Too Late to Stop Smoking
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al; 2008
