Did you know there are 7,000 chemicals in every cigarette? Most of them are dangerous, and nearly 100 are cancerous. It’s no secret that cigarettes are bad for your health. Smoking has long been associated with poor health and even fatal diseases. But, you might not be aware of exactly how they do their damage. As a smoker, you’ll often overlook the health problems and look away from the potential risks.
In this post, we’ll help you face up to the very real health problems associated with smoking. From the well-known lung cancer problems to the lesser known anxiety and mood issues. Take the time to understand what you’re putting into your body every day. Perhaps this will give you the final push towards an electronic cigarette, or give up entirely.
1. Lung cancer
As you would expect, lung cancer tops our list. Cigarette smoke is the single biggest cause of lung cancer, and responsible for millions of deaths every year. It is the most high profile health complication associated with smoking, and with good reason. Don’t forget that it’s not just your lungs that are damaged. Second-hand smoke has also killed thousands through passive intake.
2. Heart disease
Heart disease is one of the most prominent fatal illnesses in the UK and USA. It manifests as a result of poor diet, low exercise, and age. However, smoking significantly increases the likelihood of early onset. Introducing smoke into the blood pollutes the oxygen within it. Since all blood travels to, and through, the heart, inevitably, the pollutants reach the heart.
3. Blood cancer
As we have explored, dangerous chemicals infiltrate your blood quickly. Your lungs transfer oxygen to the blood, to carry it around the body. When your lungs are polluted with smoke, they transfer harmful chemicals too. It constricts the blood flow and increases the risk of blood cancer significantly. It can slow down hemostasis and make wounds more difficult to heal. It’s also worth noting that smokers are much more likely to develop mouth cancer, lip cancer and throat cancer.
4. Anxiety
Anxiety is a very real mental health problem. It fuels negative and destructive thoughts. It can lead to depression and manifest in more dangerous mental problems. The reason for this is the nicotine present. Nicotine is a mood altering drug. Although it will temporarily provide stress relief and energy, its quick withdrawal introduces anxiety.
5. Infertility
The stymied blood flow also affects the reproductive organs. It can cause infertility in both men and women, and these problems will hit at an early age. It can also encourage an early menopause in women. Remember, blood is your vital fluid that powers each of your organs.
6. Pregnancy problems
Smoking has long been linked to pregnancy trouble. Pregnant women are encouraged to avoid smoking while carrying a child. It can cause a miscarriage, damage the placenta, and result in premature delivery. Just remember that you pass on nutrients to your baby through your blood. If it is polluted, your child is receiving polluted nutrients.
Unfortunately, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to smoking. Aesthetic problems and other health issues are rife. If you need help quitting, please see your GP immediately.