Stopping the cigarette habit greatly improves your risk factors. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen reaching tissues by damaging small blood vessels, particularly in the hands, feet, kidneys and eyes. As soon as you quit, your body begins to repair the damage caused by smoking. Within a few weeks after quitting, your smoker’s cough will disappear and you will have more energy.
Quitting can be challenging, but once you do, your body will reap the benefits no matter what your age. One of your best partners in this effort is your doctor or pharmacist, who can help you make a plan to quit. In addition, we encourage you to tap into these resources to help you succeed: