Smoking is bad for you.
- Smokers have a limited sense of smell.
- Both active and passive smokers are at a greater risk of developing chest infections.
- Smokers are at greater risk of developing cancer, especially in the throat and lungs.
- People with asthma who are exposed to smoke may experience significant worsening of their condition.
- Having smokers’ breath and constantly smelling of cigarettes.
Some Great Reasons for Quitting
Smoking cessation is one of the most important things you will ever do.
Here is why:
- You will live longer and live better.
- Quitting will lower your chances of having a hart attack, stroke, or cancer.
- If you are pregnant, quitting smoking will improve your chances of having a healthy baby.
- The people you live with, especially your children, will be healthier.
- You will have extra money to spend on things other than cigarettes.
Preparation
- Set a date for stopping.
- Get rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your home, car, and workplace. Do not allow smoking in you home.
- Review your past attempts to quit. Think about what worked and what did nor. Once you quit, do nor smoke, nor even a puff!
Get Support and Encouragement
- Tell your family, friends, and colleagues chat you arc going to quit and want their support.
- Ask them not to smoke around you or leave cigarettes out.
- Talk to your GP or a pharmacist.
- Get counselling.
The more counselling you have, the better your chances are of quitting.
Learn New Skills and Behaviours
- Distract yourself from urges to smoke. Talk to someone, go for a walk.
- Do something to reduce your stress. Take a hot bath, exercise, or read a book.
- Plan something enjoyable to do every day.
- Drink lots of water and other non-alcoholic fluids.
Get Medication and Use it Correctly
- Medication can help you stop smoking and lessen the urge to smoke.
- There are now products that you can buy over the counter such as patches, inhalators, chewing gum and lozenges.
- There are also some medications you can take; however, these are only available through a doctors prescription.
- All of these medications will double your chances of quitting for good.
If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant; are under age 18; smoking fewer than 10 cigarettes per day; or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor or pharmacist the before taking any medications.
Be Prepared for Relapse or Difficult Situations
Most relapses occur within the first three months after quitting. Do not be discouraged if you start smoking again. Remember, most people try several times before they finally quit
Here are some difficult situations to watch for:
- Avoid drinking alcohol. Drinking lowers your chances of success.
- Other smokers. Being around smoking can make you want to smoke.
- Weight gain. Many smokers will gain weight when they quit, usually less than 10 pounds. Eat a healthy diet and stay active.
- Do not let weight gain distract you from your main goal, quitting smoking.
- Bad mood or depression. There are many ways to improve your mood other than smoking.
Finally, good luck, stay smoke free and healthy
Dr Vasos can help you give up smoking.