Essex Wellbeing Service
Visit the website here for help with stopping smoking
Telephone- 0300 303 9988
Email- provide.essexwellbeing@nhs.net
The benefits of stopping smoking grow over time:
After 20 minutes
The pulse rate returns to normal. Contrary to common belief you will feel less stressed! NRT helps combat cravings which can be interpreted as stress.
After 8 hours
Nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in the blood are reduced by more than half and oxygen levels return to normal.
After 48 hours
Carbon monoxide and nicotine levels return to normal. Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris. The ability to taste and smell is improved.
After 72 hours
Breathing becomes easier. Bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase.
After 2-12 weeks
Your circulation improves. No more cold hands and feet.
After 3-9 months
Coughs, wheezing and breathing problems improve as lung function increases by up to 10%.
After 1 year
The risk of heart disease is about half compared with a person who is still smoking.
After 10 years
The risk of lung cancer falls to half that of a smoker.
After 15 years
The risk of heart attack falls to the same as someone who has never smoked.