Smoking During Winter Could Possibly Kill You!

Did you know that cigarettes contain nicotine that can make you an addict? If you did, then you’d probably also be aware of the fact that it contains more than 4,000 cancer-causing products. Because of this, smoking increases the secretions of the lungs, which leads to an increase in spasms, resulting in cough, dizziness and breathlessness. 

This, however, is less during summers. During winter, the situation gets even worse. The cold air and smog affect the lungs, and smoking during this weather can worsen the effect. So, if you are curious to know about the effects of cigarette smoking and the diseases it may cause, you arrive at the right place. Let’s begin by saying no to smoking!

How Does Smoking Affect The Body More During Winter?

In winter, we avoid opening our windows and even keep our doors closed in order to prevent the cold air outside. In such conditions, if someone is continuously smoking inside the house, it increases the gaseous material and the particulate matter inside the house. As a result, other people who are inside the house inhale more smoke than they would normally inhale with a non-smoker or a summer house, which is better ventilated. 

So, because of passive smoking, the chance of contracting severe lung infection increases for other inhabitants of the house. Such an infection could also lead to lung failure and, eventually, death. If pregnant women smoke, the oxygen that is supplied to the foetus can severely affect its growth.

Harmful Effects of Smoking On Patients

People who are already suffering from liver, kidney, heart diseases and diabetes have less immunity as their body’s immunity is already reduced. Smoking, in addition to these health problems, results in respiratory diseases, and it becomes easier for such patients to get affected and develop pneumonia. That is why smokers are easy targets for infections. They would contract the diseases because their immunity is lowered. 

Smoking is also known to decrease the body’s immunity substantially, especially to airborne infections. During winters, on account of smoking, secretion clearance of the lungs goes down, which increases the chances of catching a disease; hence, people become more prone to respiratory infections.

Worst Diseases Smoking Causes:

Smoking isn’t just a little bad; it’s a big deal when it comes to your health. Let’s break down some of the worst diseases smoking can cause.

1. Lung Cancer: Smoking and lung cancer go hand in hand. The chemicals in cigarettes can damage your lungs over time, increasing the risk of developing cancer. It’s like playing a risky game with your health, and the odds are not in your favour.
2. Heart Disease: Your heart works hard to keep you alive, but smoking makes its job tougher. Cigarettes contain harmful substances that can clog your arteries, leading to heart disease. Think of it as putting extra hurdles in front of your heart – not a good idea.
3. Respiratory Issues: Smoking messes with your ability to breathe freely. It can cause chronic bronchitis and emphysema, making simple activities like climbing stairs feel like climbing a mountain. Imagine struggling for every breath – that’s what smoking can do to your lungs.
4. Stroke: Smoking increases the chances of having a stroke. The more you smoke, the more bullets you’re putting in the chamber, waiting for something serious to happen.
5. Weakening Immune System: Your immune system is your body’s defence against illnesses. Smoking weakens this defence, making you more susceptible to infections. It’s like exposing your body’s armour, leaving you exposed to all sorts of health threats.

Effects of Cigarette Smoking:

Now that we’ve covered the worst diseases smoking can cause, let’s delve into the immediate effects of cigarette smoking that you might experience, especially during the winter months.

Cold Hands and Feet:

Smoking narrows your blood vessels, reducing blood flow to your extremities. Smoking makes it even more challenging in winter when your body is already working hard to keep warm. Your hands and feet may feel colder than usual, and no one wants to endure freezing fingers and toes.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Infections:

Winter is harmful for colds and flu. Smoking damages your respiratory system, making you more prone to these infections. Lighting up in the cold might seem like a way to stay warm, but it’s actually inviting trouble to your lungs.

Worsening of Chronic Conditions:

If you already have respiratory issues like asthma or chronic bronchitis, smoking can make them worse. It’s like adding fuel to the fire, making your winter even more uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.

Reduced Exercise Tolerance:

Winter is a time when physical activity tends to decrease, but smoking further reduces your ability to exercise. Your lungs are already working hard in the cold air, and smoking makes it even harder. It’s like trying to run a marathon with weights tied to your ankles.

Conclusion

In the chill of winter, it’s pleasing to reach for a cigarette to stay warm, but the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. Smoking doesn’t just harm your health in the long run – it can make your winter more uncomfortable and put your life at risk. 

If you’re a smoker, consider quitting for a healthier and safer season. Your body will thank you, and you can enjoy winter without the added burden of smoking-related health issues. And if you are looking for the best advice or treatment from the best pulmonologist in Delhi NCR, We have a specialised team to tackle all your health problems. Book an appointment now to know more. visit PSRI Hospital.

FAQs

Q1: Can smoking in winter really be more dangerous?

A1: Yes, smoking during winter can be riskier. Cold weather already puts stress on your body, and smoking compounds this stress by narrowing blood vessels, increasing the chances of cold hands and feet, and worsening respiratory issues.

Q2: How does smoking contribute to lung cancer?

A2: Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into your lungs. Over time, these chemicals can damage lung tissues, increasing the risk of developing lung cancer. It’s like a slow build-up of damage that can have severe consequences.

Q3: Does smoking increase the risk of heart disease?

A3: Absolutely. Smoking contributes to the build-up of plaque in your arteries, making your heart work harder. This increases the risk of heart disease, much like clogging up the pipes in your home plumbing system.