Smoking is one of the most widely researched activities that harm the daily lives of many individuals. The irony is that it is also the most frequently participated in social activity. Regardless of social drives and awareness campaigns, individuals still tend to ignore warnings and indulge in this risky behavior. From cigars to passive smoke exposure, inhaling tobacco smoke tends to create some of the most deadly respiratory diseases.
According to the best lung specialist in Siliguri, smoking causes an individual’s lungs to take in carcinogenic or cancer-causing chemicals, directly. The respiratory system's fragile tissues may sustain harm as a result. Let's look into other various factors that make smoking a major risk factor for lung health.
Understanding How Smoking AffectsThe Lungs
Studies have found that rather than the nicotine content, it is the intake of tar that causes lung diseases. While nicotine intake impacts healthy brain development in the case of lung health, pulmonologists believe that the tar damages tissues severely. As stated, cigarettes have a blend of almost 8000+ chemicals that melt together when lit up. Out of these, it has been estimated that almost 70 are known to be carcinogens.
When an individual inhales this smoke, a thin, toxic fog enters the respiratory system, which leaves the linings of tar. Each time a person smokes, tar is collected, causing severe cases of breathing problems.
Impact of Passive Smoking
You can still be affected by smoking if you are a non-smoker living with a smoker. Also known as second-hand smoking, passive smoking affects thousands of children, pregnant women, and non-smokers who are prone to health conditions.
Lung specialists in Siliguri have also stated that children who have parents or family members who smoke are more prone to diseases such as asthma, allergies, and breathing problems. Pregnant women who are exposed to smoke are also prone to be affected by low birth weight and, in extreme cases, cot death. Secondhand smoke exposure puts nonsmokers at risk for heart and lung conditions.
Lung Diseases Caused By Smoking
Let us discuss some of the lung diseases caused y smoking according to thebest lung specialist in Siliguri:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
COPD is considered to be a dangerous and progressive lung disease which also includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In this disease, the airways and other parts of the lungs are damaged severely. This causes inflammation and blocking of the airflow, which makes breathing harder. The diseases impact the daily life of individuals heavily, making it harder for them to do simple tasks like walking, cooking or standing.
Lung cancer
As the only disease feared by most smokers, lung cancer is the leading cause of death among smokers, along with heart conditions. Constant exposure to carcinogens through smoke damages the DNA of the lung cells. This can lead to the development of tumors and cause the uncontrollable growth of cells. Long-term exposure only amplifies this process, which results in lung cancer.
Asthma and allergy
While it doesn't directly cause asthma, tobacco smoke can irritate the airways, causing the symptoms of asthma and allergies to worsen. Children exposed to passive smoke, however, can develop asthma as it causes inflammation of the lungs and mucus buildup. This can cause them to struggle with asthma attacks more frequently.
Can The Damage Be Reversed?
Quitting smoking can dramatically improve lung health over time. While not all damage is reversible, the lungs do have a remarkable ability to heal, especially if smoking cessation occurs early. Breathing gets easier and lung function starts to recover within a few weeks of stopping. The risk of COPD and lung cancer has gradually decreased over time.
Thebest lung specialist in Siliguri states that quitting smoking by the age of 30 can help you completely recover from almost all its ill effects. Lung function tests, regular screenings, and personalized treatment plans from pulmonologists can guide you on the road to recovery and help monitor your progress.
Conclusion
It is crucial to keep in mind that you are in charge of your health and that smoking is one of the most preventable causes of lung disease. Millions of people still suffer as a result of ignorance, addiction, or postponed medical assistance, which can only make things worse. Thus, understanding the risks is a significant first step toward a healthier future, regardless of whether you smoke now, have smoked in the past, or are just trying to safeguard your health.
If you are planning to start your nicotine-free journey, you can consult with the top lung specialist in Siliguri, who provides professional advice and individualized treatment.
