This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Stop Smoking Tobacco
When you stop smoking tobacco, your body begins to heal and repair itself immediately. Here is a timeline of what happens to your body in the days, weeks, and months after you quit:
Within 20 minutes:
Your heart rate and blood pressure drop.
Your circulation improves.
The level of oxygen in your blood increases.
Within 12 hours:
The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.
Within 2-3 days:
Your lung function improves.
Your sense of taste and smell start to improve.
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms begin.
Within 2-12 weeks:
Your circulation continues to improve.
Your lung function continues to improve.
Your cough and shortness of breath decrease.
Your energy level increases.
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms subside.
Within 1-9 months:
Cilia (tiny hair-like structures in your lungs that help remove mucus and other debris) start to regrow.
Coughing and shortness of breath decrease further.
Lung function continues to improve.
Your risk of heart attack decreases by 50%.
Within 10 years:
Your risk of lung cancer decreases by 50%.
Your risk of stroke decreases to that of a non-smoker.
Your risk of all other smoking-related cancers decreases.
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, and it’s never too late to start. If you’re thinking about quitting, there are many resources available to help you, including nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and support groups.
Additional benefits of quitting smoking:
Your skin will look clearer and healthier.
Your teeth will become whiter.
Your breath will smell fresher.
You will have more money to spend on other things.
You will be a better role model for your loved ones.
Quitting smoking is not easy, but it is worth it. Your body will thank you for it.