Deciding to quit smoking now is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and well-being. However, understanding what to expect on this journey can help you stay committed and motivated. Here’s our timeline so that you can follow your significant milestones on this path to a smoke-free life.
After only 20 mins
The benefits of quitting smoking begin almost immediately after you stub out your final combustible cigarette. Within just 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop to more normal levels. Your circulation starts to improve, giving you the first signs of better health.
After eight to 12 hours
In the first eight to 12 hours after you quit smoking, the carbon monoxide levels in your blood have decreased, which allows your blood oxygen levels to rise to normal. This change reduces your risk of heart attacks and improves your body’s overall oxygenation.
After 24 to 48 hours
By the second day, your body will have eliminated nearly all traces of nicotine. Your senses of taste and smell, which have been dulled by smoking since you started, will now improve. This makes eating food more enjoyable and enhances your appreciation of various scents.
After two to three weeks
As you continue your journey to quit smoking now, your long-term effects start to shine through. This includes the improvement of your lung function. Now, you’ll find that it’s easier to breathe and have more energy for physical activities. Walking and exercise become less strenuous, and you’ll likely experience less coughing and shortness of breath.
After one to three months
By the end of the third month, your blood circulation continues to improve. You’ll also see a substantial improvement in your lung function and physical performance. After this amount of time, your risk of heart disease will start to decrease, and your body’s overall healing process will accelerate moving forward.
After one year
One year after you quit smoking, your risk of coronary heart disease becomes roughly half of that of a smoker. When you quit smoking now, the physical benefits are endless. But the emotional and psychological benefits like accomplishment and an increased self-esteem start at your one year mark.
After five years
When five years have passed, your risk of stroke is significantly reduced and becomes comparable to that of a non-smoker. The blood vessels and arteries begin to widen again, reducing the risk of blood clots and related health issues.
After ten years
A decade after you quit smoking now, your risk of lung cancer is about half that of someone who still smokes. You also decrease your risk of mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, and pancreas cancer. Your body has had a significant time to repair and regenerate after all this time.
After 15 years
Your risk of coronary heart disease is equivalent to that of a non-smoker 15 years after you quit smoking. What a huge milestone!
What to do to get started?
Quitting smoking is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. By understanding the timeline of benefits, you can stay motivated and focused on the ultimate goal: a healthier, smoke-free life. Remember, it’s never too late to quit smoking now and you can get started quicker with the help of e-cigs.
How long has it been since you quit smoking? Drop a comment below to share.
