Cigarette smoking, as you are undoubtedly aware, causes respiratory difficulties and lung cancer. But did you know it also increases your chances of having a heart attack? Every cigarette you smoke increases your risk of developing heart disease. Smoking is directly linked to about one out of every five fatalities from heart disease.
Smokers are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease than nonsmokers. Women who smoke and use birth control pills are at an even higher risk. Cigarette smoke is also harmful to others who are close to you. People who do not smoke can develop heart disease and lung cancer through secondhand smoke.
Dangers of nicotine
Smoke lowers the amount of oxygen your heart receives and increases your blood pressure. Furthermore, it raises your heart rate, increases the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes, and damages the insides of your blood vessels, particularly those in your heart.
Quit smoking
Your chances of developing heart disease or high blood pressure will decrease quickly after you stop. You’ll be significantly less likely to get heart disease after 1 to 2 years of stopping smoking. Of course, quitting smoking reduces your risk of lung cancer and other forms of cancer, as well as emphysema and other serious illnesses.
How to quit?
It is beneficial to plan ahead. Make a date for quitting smoking and stick to it. Make a list of the reasons you want to quit smoking. Before and after you stop, go through the list every day. Keep track of when and why you smoke, as well as what you’re doing when you smoke. You’ll figure out what makes you want to smoke.
Before stopping completely, you may wish to cease smoking cigarettes in particular settings, such as during your work break or after dinner. Make a list of alternative activities to smoking. When you want to smoke, be prepared to do anything else.
Furthermore, inquire with your doctor about taking medicine or utilizing nicotine gum or patches. These aids are beneficial to certain persons. You’ll need a doctor’s prescription for some of these. Others are accessible without a prescription and can be purchased over the counter.
Tips for not starting this habit again
Carry no lighters, matches, or cigarettes with you. Keep all of these reminders of smoking out of sight. If you live with someone who smokes, urge them to refrain from smoking in your presence, or better yet, quit smoking with you. Also, don’t get caught up in what you’re losing out on. Consider the healthier lifestyle you’re getting.
Take a big breath when you feel the temptation to smoke. Hold it for up to 10 seconds before gently exhaling. Rep this process as needed until the temptation to smoke has passed. Keep your hands occupied at all times. Work on a computer, doodle, or play with a pencil or straw. Change activities that were previously associated with cigarette smoking. Instead of having a smoke break, go for a stroll or read a book.
