Smoking in Cartagena, Colombia

Why is quitting smoking so hard?

Nicotine creates real addiction: the brain gets used to it, and stopping brings anxiety, irritability, intense cravings, trouble concentrating and increased appetite. Smoking is also tied to routines like coffee or stress. That is why many attempts without help fail.

Which treatments help?

Combining professional support with medication greatly increases the chance of success. There are nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gum or lozenges, and prescription medications that reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapy helps identify triggers and change habits.

What about vaping or e-cigarettes?

They also contain nicotine and cause dependence, and their long-term health effects are still being studied. They are not recommended as a way to start using nicotine, and people who vape can also get treatment to quit.

What are the benefits of quitting?

Within weeks breathing and sense of smell improve, and over the years the risk of heart attack, stroke, COPD and several cancers drops significantly. It is never too late to quit, and relapses are part of the process.

Find smoking cessation specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find doctors, pulmonologists, psychiatrists and psychologists offering quit-smoking programs. Compare profiles and book your appointment.