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Physical and Emotional Effects of Quitting Smoking

Making the decision to quit smoking is a life altering decision that has numerous effects. According to MedlinePlus, death from tobacco use is the most common preventable cause of death, with about half of those who don't quit smoking dying of problems related to smoking. Despite that fact, many smokers are reluctant to quit, some partly because of worries of the physical and emotional effects associated with smoking cessation.

  1. Positive Physical Effects

    • According to SmokeFree.gov, you will breathe better, cough less, have fresher breath and your teeth will be whiter. Some other positive physical effects of smoking cessation include a returning sense of smell and improved taste.

    Positive Health Effects

    • There are numerous positive health effects of smoking cessation. Some of the health benefits include lower blood pressure, improved circulation, decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, premature death and cataracts. Additionally, those around you won't be at risk of health problems due to second hand smoke.

    Emotional Effects

    • Stop Smoking Tips lists a variety of positive emotional effects of smoking cessation. These include feeling more in control of your life, feeling more accomplished, having a better self esteem and feeling happier. However, the American Cancer Society lists some negative emotional effects that must be considered. These include irritability, depression and anxiety.

    Negative Physical Effects

    • The American Cancer Society states that there are some negative physical effects of smoking cessation that will cause some participants to start smoking again. These effects usually start within a few hours of taking your last puff, and they get increasingly more intense until they peak two to three days after the last puff, after which they gradually become easier to cope with until they fully subside, which can take a few weeks. The effects include headaches, dizziness, increased appetite and weight gain, trouble concentrating and tiredness.

    Coping with Negative Effects

    • According to a report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), counseling that includes encouragement support and developing practical solutions to problems is an important part of smoking cessation. The report states that identifying and avoiding situations that increase the likelihood of smoking again, talking about the struggles of smoking cessation, learning personal coping methods for the struggles and having a strong support team are all elements that increase the chance of the cessation program being effective.

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