People who quit smoking get rewarded immediately. Their heart rate and blood pressure begin to return to normal, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) reports. Carbon monoxide levels in the blood begin to decline within hours. Carbon monoxide, found in cigarette smoke, interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Improved circulation and fewer episodes of coughing occur within a few weeks.
Longer Life
Ex-smokers live longer than smokers. When you quit smoking, you lower the risks of heart attack, stroke, chronic lung disease, lung cancer and cancers of the mouth, throat and esophagus. People who quit smoking at age 30 reduce the chance of dying from smoking-related diseases by more than 90 percent, according to the NCI. People who quit at age 50 reduce the risk of dying prematurely by 50 percent compared to smokers. Some ex-smokers may gain a little weight, but the weight gain usually is temporary and less than 10 pounds. The health benefits far outweigh any risks from a small weight gain.
Feel Better
After you quit smoking, your breath smells better and you regain your sense of smell. Food starts to taste better. The smell of smoke disappears from your hair and clothes. Your teeth get whiter and you lose the yellowish coloring on your fingers and fingernails. You no longer get short of breath after doing daily physical activities, and your skin looks healthier. Most former smokers feel more in charge because they don’t need to smoke and they aren’t as worried about their health, according to Smokefree.gov.
More Money
Ex-smokers usually discover they have extra money to spend after they quit. People who quit smoking find they can afford the latest high-tech gadgets, more entertainment outings and better gifts for the family. Former smokers pay lower premiums for health and life insurance than smokers, and they typically make fewer visits to the doctor as well.
Social Rewards
You won’t have to worry about sneaking out for a smoke while at a friend’s home, in a restaurant or at the movies. Public buildings, concerts and many sporting events are smoke-free. You won’t threaten others, including your friends and family, with the problems associated with secondhand smoke. About 38,000 deaths can be attributed to secondhand smoke each year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Ex-smokers also set a good example for children in their homes and neighborhoods.
About this Author
Jerry Shaw has spent more than 35 years in newspapers, magazines and book publishing. He has written on a variety of topics for various websites, magazines and newspapers, including “Florida Today,” “Daytona Beach News-Journal” and “Today in PT,” an online magazine for physical therapists. He lives in Florida.
