Smoking is one of the biggest threats to lung health. But what happens when the decision is made to stop this habit? What specific benefits does it bring to the lungs and overall health? In this article, we will discuss the benefits of quitting smoking for lung health.
Regeneration after quitting smoking
The first good news is that the lungs have the ability to regenerate. Even after long years of smoking, your lungs can begin to repair themselves when you stop smoking. Here's what happens to your lungs after you stop smoking:
After 72 hours: Nicotine levels in your body drop to almost zero. Your airways begin to relax, which helps increase lung capacity and improve breathing.
After 2 weeks to 3 months: Your lung capacity begins to improve. You may notice that it is easier to breathe, and your capacity during exercise is better.
After 1 to 9 months: The glaring withdrawal symptoms will disappear. Coughing and shortness of breath will gradually begin to decrease, and lung function will continue to improve.
After 1 year: The risk of coronary heart disease drops to half that of a smoker.
After 5 years: The risk of lung cancer drops by 50% compared to a smoker.
Health benefits of quitting smoking
Quitting smoking has many lung health benefits, including:
Lower risk of lung disease: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of many lung diseases, such as lung cancer, COPD and lung infections.
Improved lung function: Quitting smoking leads to improved lung function, which means it is easier to breathe and there is less risk of shortness of breath.
Improved physical fitness: By improving lung function, quitting smoking can improve physical fitness and endurance.
Lower risk of infection: Smoking weakens the immune system, which increases the risk of infections such as pneumonia and influenza. Quitting smoking helps strengthen lung immunity.
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