Smoking cigarettes is a bad habit for people all around the world. It’s no secret that smoking is bad for you, but many cigarette smokers don’t realize just how bad it can be in the long term. The more than 600 chemicals in cigarettes turn into over 7,000 chemicals when they’re burned! Those chemicals are breathed directly into your lungs and immediately start affecting your nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. With extended daily use, long-term effects begin to add up.

AFC Urgent Care Malden is dedicated to improving the health of the general public. That is why we provide resources to all patients who want to improve their health daily. 

Dental Effects

You only get one set of adult teeth in your life, so it’s important to take care of them. Smoking will lead to yellow teeth that decay more easily and bad breath. There is also an increased risk of mouth cancer included in the long-term side effects on your dental health too.

Cardiovascular Effects

Smoking makes it harder for your cardiovascular system to circulate blood around the body. Your blood vessels tighten, leading to an increased risk of blood clots. Blood clots can form in your brain and cause a stroke. Poor circulation and clotting around your heart put you at an increased risk of heart attack and heart disease.

Respiratory Effects

Over 39 of the chemicals in cigarettes are directly linked to cancer, so it’s no surprise that smoking puts you at a higher risk of lung cancer in the long term. You’re also more likely to suffer from chronic lung conditions such as COPD, emphysema, asthma, and bronchitis. Long-term smokers often cough and get short of breath much more frequently than non-smokers.

Effects on Hair, Skin, and Nails

Smoking will lead to premature aging since it changes the surface of your skin and causes the skin to wrinkle earlier in life. Your hair may become thin or fall out after years of smoking, and your nails are more prone to discoloration and fungal infections. Skin cancer is also more common in long-term smokers than it is in non-smokers.

There are resources available if you’re interested in quitting smoking and improving your long-term health. AFC Urgent Care Malden can give you more information on resources to help break the habit and tools to manage nicotine withdrawals without disrupting your day-to-day life. Learn more about the short-term and long-term effects on your entire body. Quitting is possible, and it’s never too late to prioritize your health.