Short Term Effects of Smoking

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It’s common for people who smoke to actually believe that the effects of smoking will not set in until they are middle-aged or even elderly. Unfortunately, for too long, people have believed that they could smoke cigarettes without any major impact on their bodies until they are well past their 40s or 50s. The short term effects of smoking, though not typically as severe as the long term effects, are still a major concern and should be understood. Though cigarettes may not kill you immediately the way that a drug overdose could, the immediate impact that smoking has on the brain, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract and immune system should not be overlooked!

Effects of Smoking on the Brian

Smoking has a near immediate impact on the brain that does not simply go away when the administration of nicotine and other harmful chemical stops. The addictive nature of nicotine creates a cognitive chemical dependency and increases stress, changes the chemical composition of the brain and reduces dopamine receptors which leave the individual more vulnerable to or prone to becoming addicted to the substance.

Effects of Smoking on the Respiratory System

The short term effects of smoking cigarettes have a dire impact on the respiratory system which is responsible for providing oxygen throughout the body. A lack of oxygen to major organs causes immediate damage and can lead to lasting consequences even after just a few instances of smoking cigarettes. Smoking can lead to persistent cough, poor physical performance, increased phlegm production and irritated lungs or bronchial airways.

Effects of Smoking on the Cardiovascular System & Heart

The heart and all of the blood vessels that carry oxygen and blood throughout the body are part of the body known as the cardiovascular system. Unfortunately, the short term effects of smoking can cause long term damage to this intricate system which provides vital oxygen deliverance to the brain, heart and other organs within the body. Smoking can cause thrombosis, plaque buildup on the arteries which can lead to heart attack, constricted blood vessels which can lead to reduced blood supply to major organs, rapid heart rate and high blood pressure.

Effects of Smoking on the Gastrointestinal Tract

The gastrointestinal tract digests food, absorbs nutrients and disposes of waste byproducts to keep the body healthy. Even the short term effects of smoking can have a long term impact on the gastrointestinal tract causing damage to the esophagus, stomach, and mouth. Smoking has been found to increase the risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux, ulcers, bad breath and periodontal disease.

Getting Help

It’s important to recognize and understand that smoking does not have to take place for many months or years before there can be permanent damage done to major organs and system within the body. Even short term smoking can lead to lasting consequences such as organ damage, reduced dopamine production and an increased risk or vulnerability towards future addictions. Finding help early on is your best chance of finding a way to avoid cigarettes and to quit smoking before the worst of the side effects such as cancer, heart attack and similar risks have set in.