Yes! Smoking hurts your health in many ways. We are sure that you have heard this before, but smoking greatly increases your risk of serious diseases and other long-term health struggles. Every time you smoke, you are introducing thousands of chemicals into your body.

Giving up the habit is one of the best things you can do for yourself, and it can actually make those around you healthier, too. Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team explains the additional benefits of giving up tobacco below, so check it out.

Can I Just Reduce My Smoking Habit?

You really should work on quitting completely. We understand that tobacco is addictive and it can create some really intense cravings, but taking steps toward completely quitting will be so beneficial for you. Within 10 seconds of a single inhalation of tobacco smoke, the chemicals travel to your major organs like your brain, liver and lungs.

Every time you smoke, you are contributing to tar buildup in your lungs, which will cause respiratory issues and breathing troubles over time. It also will start to affect your hearing and vision! In addition, long-term smoking can start to deteriorate your physical appearance as well. You can expect your skin to get saggy and turn yellow, and you can develop premature wrinkles and even experience hair loss.

Common Diseases Caused by Tobacco Use

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Lung cancer
• Heart disease
• Emphysema

How Will Quitting Help My Family?

Secondhand smoke is a danger to everyone in your home and to everyone you spend time with. It is contaminated by thousands of chemicals that can adversely affect your loved ones over time. If you are a chronic smoker, your family is also at an increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer and stroke, even if they are not smokers themselves.

Do your entire family a favor and keep these chemicals out of your home! If you have small children, this is even more important. Exposure to secondhand smoke in children leads to an increased risk of developing respiratory troubles and even asthma as they get older. If quitting is hard for you, focus on the health of your children to help you find the motivation.

Start the Quitting Process

• Find your reason to quit.
• Research different cessation options.
• Consider counseling.
• Surround yourself with positive support.

We are always here for you. Stop by AFC Urgent Care Boulder any day of the week.