Quit Smoking
If you smoke, get help to quit. Smoking not only increases your risk for heart disease
and stroke, it also can lead to eye, kidney, and nerve damage. When you have diabetes
and you smoke, it means double trouble.
Ever tried to quit smoking? It's hard because smoking is an addiction. Your body
comes to depend on nicotine. And your mind gets addicted too. Quitting smoking is
one of the hardest things you'll ever do, but you'll be glad you did. Nicotine patches,
gum, and new medicines can help. Making a plan can also help you get through tough
times. Ask your doctor or other member of you health care team for help.
Your Journey to Quitting
Here are some ideas others have used to quit smoking. Before you quit smoking:
- Think of your reasons to stop and write them down.
- Put the list where you'll see it every day.
- Tell others you'll need their help and understanding.
- Throw away your cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays.
- Ask a friend to quit smoking with you.
- Join a stop-smoking group.
Decide how you'll quit smoking:
- Go cold turkey. Quitting all at once works for some people.
- Quit smoking gradually by cutting back over several weeks.
- Use a nicotine patch or gum, or ask for a prescription medicine to
help you stop.
- Ask your diabetes educator for information about acupuncture or hypnosis.
Questions to think about before you try to stop smoking
For more help quitting, check out the Consumer Guide from the US Surgeon General.
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