Smoking can significantly delay the healing of wounds — whether from surgery, injury, or ulcers. The chemicals in cigarettes reduce blood flow, lower oxygen levels in your tissues, and weaken your immune system. This increases your risk of:
● Infection
● Scarring
● Wound breakdown
● Slower recovery
● Poor surgical outcomes
What Happens When You Smoke?
Tobacco smoke contains harmful substances like:
● Nicotine – Narrows your blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the wound.
● Carbon monoxide – Reduces oxygen delivery to tissues.
● Tar and other toxins – Slow your body’s ability to fight infection and rebuild healthy tissue.
Benefits of Quitting Smoking
● Improve blood flow and oxygen to your wound
● Lower your risk of complications
● Speed up healing
● Improve your overall outcome
Tips to Help You Quit
- Set a Quit Date: Pick a day and stick to it.
- Use Support Tools:
○ Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges)
○ Prescription medications (like Chantix or Zyban) - Avoid Triggers: Stay away from situations where you usually smoke.
- Find Alternatives: Chew gum, take a walk, sip water, or use a stress ball.
- Get Support: Talk to your healthcare provider, join a quit-smoking program, or call a helpline.
Need Help? Here are resources to support your quitting journey:
● National Quitline: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
● Smokefree.gov: www.smokefree.gov
● Text Support: Text QUIT to 47848
● Mobile App: Try apps like QuitGuide or QuitNow!