Do You Have COPD & Smoke? 6 Tips to Stop

Breaking the Habit: Tips for People with COPD to Quit Smoking

Introduction

Smoking is one of the primary causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It’s also a major trigger for flare-ups. According to lung.org, approximately 85 – 90% of COPD cases are caused by smoking. Quitting smoking can help slow down the disease, so it’s never too late to quit.

Smoking & COPD: Trapped in a Cycle

The harmful effects of smoking are compounded in individuals with COPD, leading to rapid lung damage. However, the withdrawal symptoms from quitting smoking can make it difficult to break the habit. Fortunately, there are ways to manage withdrawal symptoms and break the cycle.

Tips for People with COPD to Quit the Habit

1. Examine Your Motivation: Understand why you want to quit and keep that reason in mind to stay motivated.
2. Use the Power of Replacement: Replace smoking triggers with healthier habits like chewing gum or calling a friend.
3. Find Your Support Group: Share your quitting journey with friends and family and join support groups to stay accountable.
4. Get Clear on Your Quit Date: Set a clear quit date to increase your chances of success.
5. Consider Medication: Use nicotine replacement therapies or other medications to manage withdrawal symptoms.
6. Recognize It Takes Resilience Over Time: Understand that it may take multiple attempts to quit, but persistence is key.

Benefits of Breaking the Habit

Quitting smoking has numerous benefits, not just for COPD but for overall health. Here’s how your body will improve after you quit:

• 20 minutes: Your heart rate and blood pressure drop to normal.
• 1 day: Carbon monoxide levels in your blood return to normal.
• 1-3 months: Your breathing improves, and your immune system strengthens.
• 1 year: Risk of heart attack is reduced by 50%.
• 5-10 years: Risk of stroke, heart disease, and smoking-related cancers continues to decline, eventually matching the levels of non-smokers.

PEP Buddy's Better Breathing Benefits

PEP Buddy is an easy-to-use, hands-free breathing device that relieves breathlessness. Among people with COPD/emphysema, 72% of people experienced a significant reduction in their shortness of breath or breathlessness thanks to PEP Buddy. Better breathing leads to improved quality of life and the ability to do more and be more active.

Learn more about PEP Buddy today.

Summary Points:

• Smoking is a major cause and trigger for COPD, but quitting smoking can help slow disease progression.
• Managing withdrawal symptoms and staying motivated are key to quitting smoking successfully.
• The benefits of quitting smoking include improved heart health, better lung function, and a decreased risk of smoking-related cancers.
• PEP Buddy helps reduce breathlessness and improve quality of life for people with COPD.

Take Control of Your Health Today!

Quitting smoking is challenging, but with the right support and resources, you can break free from the habit and improve your health. Start your journey to better breathing today!