Quitting smoking certainly improves health and quality of life.
We are now aware that smoking is harmful to health. However, diabetics have it far worse. In fact, smoking raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, renal disease, and erectile dysfunction. Why is diabetes and smoking a lethal combination? Both may harm the heart and the circulatory system. They may increase your blood pressure and cholesterol. Additionally, smokers have difficulty managing their blood sugar. And so, smoking increases insulin resistance.
Now, let’s discuss more diabetes problems. Diabetes increases the likelihood of peripheral neuropathy. This is a disorder in which nerve injury in the extremities causes a loss of feeling in the hands and/or feet. And smoking may exacerbate the risk.
This is due to the fact that smoking frequently constricts and damages the blood vessels. And this is a significant issue for diabetics with reduced circulation. This is a consequence of smoking with diabetes. Contact Houston podiatrist Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale immediately if you see any of these issues, even if they are just beginning.
A Dangerous Combination: Diabetics, Smoking, and PAD
Research indicates that smoking increases the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. Things only get worse from there if you continue to smoke. Why? Read on.
When you smoke, your blood circulation suffers. And diabetes increases the risk of impaired circulation by double. As a result, you run a higher chance of your foot wounds not healing. In other words, they could develop into ulcers. Which, if left unchecked, could need amputation.
If you’re a smoker, it is now time to consider quitting smoking. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that tobacco kills around six million people annually. And more than 600,000 of these deaths are linked to secondhand smoking.)
Need further reasons to stop smoking? Obviously, there is a risk for emphysema and cancer. However, did you realize that smoking may impact you long before you experience severe symptoms?
It’s real! According to scientific studies, smoking has devastating effects on the circulatory system. After breaking a bone, the average person forms new bone within 69 days. However, it takes smokers more than 89 days to form this new bone. Why? Because nicotine and carbon monoxide, two byproducts of tobacco, damage the cardiovascular system.
There’s much more. If you currently suffer from Peripheral Artery Disease(PAD), a condition that limits blood flow to your lower limbs, you should read this. If smoking worsens your circulatory system, you should quit. You will suffer from catastrophic side effects. Among these are gangrene (which can lead to amputation.) And a greater likelihood of heart attack or stroke.
Everyone must stop smoking. This is particularly true if your PAD risk is elevated. (This includes everyone above the age of 50. Or those with diabetes, hypertension, or excessive cholesterol. Additionally, African-Americans.)
Nevertheless, I am aware of how difficult it might be to quit this habit. Never worry, I am here to help you. Continue reading for my top “Quit Smoking” advice.
How to Stop Smoking in 5 Steps
Here are five steps that can help you transition more smoothly into your “Quit Day.”
Step 1: Be Specific
Once you’ve made the decision to stop smoking, choose a date and devise a plan. Visit smokefree.gov or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for assistance selecting an effective strategy.
Step 2: Solo = No Go
It is easier to quit when you have the support of family and friends. Inform them of your decision to stop and provide them with specific methods they may assist you. Seek out people who have successfully stopped smoking and inquire about their strategies.
Step 3: Stay occupied
Replace smoking with healthy habits such as exercise and social interaction. Make arrangements with pals who do not smoke. Also, keep your mouth busy by chewing sugar-free gum.
Step 4: Avoid triggers
Keep away from people, places, and things that induce cravings for nicotine. Throw away cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays, and avoid smoking-prohibited areas such as restaurants.
Step 5: Celebrate small victories
Your ultimate objective may be to quit smoking permanently, but reward yourself for accomplishing smaller milestones such as one day, five days, a month, etc.
I am certain that you are capable of achieving your goals if you have adequate support and determination. And if you need assistance in reaching your own “Quit day,” feel free to contact me or another healthcare professional. Our responsibility is to keep you healthy. For this reason, I’m here to help you quit smoking. And to keep your feet safe from diabetic problems. Or any kind of foot pain.
Schedule a visit to my Houston podiatry office. And let’s make it the day you stop smoking permanently!
