Quitting smoking is a tough journey that many find incredibly challenging. Smokers often experience symptoms such as a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and a general feeling of malaise. Despite these difficulties, it is entirely possible to kick the habit, and thousands of individuals take the first step towards a smoke-free life each year, particularly during the Department of Health and Social Care’s Stoptober campaign. But what exactly happens to your body when you decide to quit smoking?
As you embark on your smoke-free journey, the benefits are not only significant in the long term, such as reducing your risk of cancer, but you will also notice immediate and subtle changes within your body. Within just 20 minutes of quitting, your pulse rate will begin to return to normal. After eight hours, the oxygen levels in your body will start to recover, and the harmful carbon monoxide levels in your blood will decrease by half. Within 48 hours, all carbon monoxide will be flushed out, and your lungs will start to clear mucus, leading to improved taste and smell senses.
By the 72-hour mark, you will experience increased energy levels as your bronchial tubes relax, making breathing feel easier. Between 2 to 12 weeks, your blood circulation will improve, with more blood flowing through your heart and muscles. After 3 to 9 months, your lung function will increase by 10%, and any respiratory issues like coughing and wheezing will begin to improve. One year after quitting, your risk of a heart attack will be halved compared to that of a smoker. And after a decade, your risk of dying from lung cancer will be halved as well.
If you are considering making the switch to a smoke-free life but are unsure where to start, NHS Wales’ Help Me Quit hub offers valuable advice and support. Remember, taking that first step to quit smoking can lead to countless benefits for your health and well-being.