It’s no surprise that smoking takes a toll on your entire body, including your cardiovascular health. Many smokers understand the ramifications of cigarettes but we also understand that giving up a long term habit can be extremely difficult. The following video highlights what smoking can do to your heart, lungs, and cardiovascular system. But the biggest question left over, is how can a patient kick the habit?
Effective Ways To Quit Smoking
Nicotine and tobacco cravings can feel like they are in control when you decide to quit smoking. With the help of some useful tools, you may be able to conquer the cravings and kick the habit for good. Remember that your long-term health will thank you for ditching the nicotine.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy- Your primary care physician can help you understand medical smoking cessation options. There are a variety of nicotine replacement drugs that can help you wean your body off the physical addiction without some of the painful side effects of quitting.
- Changing Your Routine- Many smokers have incorporated smoking into their daily routine. Coffee and cigarette in the morning, a quick smoke break at work, a walk with friends- all of these are natural triggers that your body associated with smoking. By changing your routine, you can avoid the behavioral cues that tell your body it’s time for a smoke.
- Delay- If you’re craving a cigarette, tell yourself to wait 10 more minutes. Start retraining yourself to do other things when a craving strikes.
- Find Something Else- Trying out gum, low sugar lollipops, and other hard candies can be a great replacement for the desire to put a cigarette in your mouth. Make sure it’s something satisfying that takes some time to chew.
Remind Yourself Why You’re Quitting Smoking
When you consider the health consequences of smoking, it’s easier to remember why you’ve stopped. Here are just a few ways smoking takes a toll on you:
- Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of atherosclerosis.
- Coronary Heart Disease occurs when the plaque builds up over time resulting in heart attacks, arrhythmias, and even death.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) can cause your body to have a hard time breathing and distributing oxygen around the body.
- The risk of stroke at an early age increases and can even cause an increase in the severity of the stroke.
If you’re suffering from Coronary Heart Disease, Atherosclerosis, or any other heart symptoms from smoking, please visit your cardiologist to help manage the symptoms as early as possible.
