How to Quit Smoking

Many studies have indicated that smoking is the single most important factor in the development of a number of different medical conditions, including congestive pulmonary obstruction disorder, lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and vein blockages. So if you ask yourself, “Why quit smoking?” consider the major negative impact that smoking can cause. Anyone can quit smoking and a variety of methods exist to help smokers quit their habit so they can live longer, healthier lives. Here are some tips to help you quit this nasty habit for good!

Know Your Reason For Quitting

Whether you want to quit in order to improve your overall health or for other reasons, decide why you want to quit smoking. Perhaps it is also to improve your athletic ability? Focus on your ultimate goal of breathing more easily, getting fewer respiratory illnesses and being more active.

Understand the Process

Quitting smoking does not occur in a straight line. You may experience a relapse along the way. Keep in mind that quitting is a process, and try to learn from occasions of relapse. These events can help you find better methods in the future. You can also slowly decrease the amount of cigarettes you smoke per day until you hit zero a day. Have a set goal.

Don’t Go It Alone

Enlist the help of family and friends to provide the support you need to overcome your nasty habit. If you let them know your goals and when you’re having difficulty, they can provide the distraction and diversion you need to get past those inevitable moments of craving. They can keep you busy with family activities, exercise, going to movies, sports and other measures that will keep you focused and tobacco-free. Consider joining a support group as well, which can be very helpful for some people.

Use Cessation Aids That Are Available

Please know that you have a wide variety of options to help you quit smoking. Don’t be afraid to explore them  to see whether they offer the relief you need while you overcome the addiction to nicotine:

• Nicotine gum – Chewing nicotine gum helps to replace the nicotine that cigarettes provide. Over time, you can gradually reduce your need for the gum until you are completely nicotine-free.
• Nicotine lozenges – Lozenges can help individuals deal with cravings, without the problems with dental work that the gum often causes.
• Nicotine patches – Nicotine patches replace nicotine in the bloodstream throughout the day and night. Some people experience vivid dreams while wearing the patch and can only wear it during the day.
• Smoking cessation medications, such as Chantix and Zyban – Talk to your doctor about prescription medications that can help to reduce nicotine cravings. These drugs can cause side effects in some people and should be taken with caution.

Remember, you can always call us to talk about your options. You can quit smoking for good and you don’t have to go through it alone!