Whether you’re making your New Year’s resolutions or simply sick and tired of the cost and health risks associated with smoking, making a plan to quit smoking is one of the best gifts you could ever give yourself. That said, we know what a challenge it can be to ditch the habit. One of the first things you should know is that you’re not alone and you’ve got support. It’s also important to realize that when your doctor advises you to quit, they’re not just blowing smoke, and here’s why…
It’s estimated that smoking cigarettes causes roughly 480,000 deaths annually in the United States. Even if you set aside the numerous, very serious health problems associated with the habit, there are also vanity issues when you account for the fact that smoking ages us at an accelerated pace (plus, did you know it actually makes your boobs sag quicker? The horror!). We know that the thought of quitting smoking can be daunting and discouraging to say the least, but we’ve got your back, which is why we’re here to provide some tips that are often highly successful. Here’s what seems to work well for our patients:
● Counseling – Remember, you are not alone and it’s okay to seek help through the support and advice of others. When you’re planning to quit, in-person or phone counseling is a great place to start. A popular counseling line is 1-800-QUITNOW.
● Chantix – This non-nicotine pill has been shown the most effective in helping smokers succeed in quitting. It is a prescription medication that can be obtained from a doctor. It works by blocking the effects of nicotine, thus making smoking less-satisfying and helping with the symptoms of withdrawal.
● Wellbutrin or Zyban – Commonly used as an antidepressant, this non-nicotine, prescription pill has been shown to ease withdrawal from cigarettes and decrease cravings.
●Nicotine Replacement – These therapies come in many forms, from patches to chewing gum to inhalers and more. They also help ease the withdrawal and lessen cravings and can even be used in conjunction with non-nicotine therapies.
Ultimately, only you can know which option is best for you, but the great thing is that you have choices – and plenty of them. We know it can be a challenge, and we’re here to help. Remember, we’re behind you every step of the way. You can do it!