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Quit smoking

Is it ever too late to quit smoking?

The answer to this question is a definite ‘no’, and the results are visible soon after you quit smoking.

  • Your senses of smell and taste will improve within 48 hours.
  • Your blood will change within two weeks so it does not clot (forms blot clots).
  • The fat level of the blood will fall within one month.
  • The ability of your lungs to fight infections will improve within one month.
  • The risk of contracting a heart disease will be halved after six months.
  • The risk of stroke or cardiovascular diseases will be back at the level of non-smokers within five years.
  • The risk of lung cancer will be halved after 10 years.
  • The risk of lung cancer will be back at the level of non-smokers after 15 years.

Stop smoking

Stop smoking programmes differ and whether they are a success or not depends on your temper and motivation.

You can find inspiration and support to stop smoking via your doctor. When you stop smoking, you may show symptoms such as hunger, coughing and disturbed sleeping patterns. The symptoms are described in brief below. It is important to be aware of these symptoms so you can do something to prevent them from arising or just accept them as short-lived.

Hunger
The feeling of hunger can be a considerable problem – particularly in the first days or weeks. If you need a snack, remember that fruit and vegetables are better for your health and weight. Try to drink more water every day as it may counter your hunger.

Coughing
Coughing is very common during the first few weeks. The reason is thought to be the clearing of the airways seen during the first few weeks after you stop smoking. The coughing will disappear gradually.

Disturbed sleeping patterns
Your sleeping patterns may be disturbed during the first two or three weeks after you stop smoking. Exercise can generally improve your sleep.

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