The Federal Center for Health Awareness in Germany has warned that smoking increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The center explained that toxins – which enter the lungs during smoking – cause permanent inflammation, which leads to the narrowing of the airways, and then the patient suffers from asthma breath, shortness of breath, and cough with phlegm.
The alveoli are also damaged more and more over time, which means that the supply of oxygen in the body decreases. So muscle wasting and cardiovascular disease are often associated with COPD.
A doctor should be consulted immediately after experiencing severe obstructive lung disease symptoms. Although this disease cannot be cured, its progress can be slowed down through medication that is taken to widen the bronchi, as well as quitting smoking.
It should be noted that obstructive pulmonary disease is a group of diseases that affect the lungs and cause a gradual blockage of the airways, making breathing difficult.
Smoking is at the forefront of the causes that cause this disease, as the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke irritate and damage the bronchial tubes and alveoli in the long run.
Although there is no cure for COPD, quitting smoking is the first and most important step in reducing health deterioration and improving quality of life.
Medicines taken to dilate the bronchi can help relieve symptoms, but stopping smoking is the only treatment that can stop the progression of the disease.
2024-11-19 12:30:00
#Smoking #threatens #health #disease
What are the psychological and social aspects of smoking addiction that former smokers like you, Thomas Kaufmann, faced during their quitting journey?
Welcome to World Today News! Today, we have two esteemed guests joining us to discuss the dangers of smoking and the risks it poses to our health. Our first guest is Dr. Lisa Williams, a pulmonary specialist at Berlin Paracelsus Clinic, and our second guest is Thomas Kaufmann, a former smoker and health activist. Let’s dive right in.
Dr. Lisa Williams, as a pulmonary specialist, what are some of the common symptoms and complications that you’ve seen in patients who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? Can you explain the long-term effects of smoking on the lungs and overall health?
Dr. Williams: Thank you for having me. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of COPD, and the effects can be devastating. Our patients often complain of shortness of breath, coughing with phlegm, and wheezing. Over time, smoking damages the airways and alveoli in the lungs, leading to a decrease in the body’s ability to absorb oxygen. This can cause muscle wasting and contribute to cardiovascular disease. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing severe symptoms to consult a doctor immediately, as while COPD cannot be cured, the progression can be slowed down with medication and, most importantly, quitting smoking.
Thomas Kaufmann, you have a personal connection to smoking cessation. Can you tell us about your journey toward quitting and what led you to become a health activist?
Thomas Kaufmann: Yes, of course. I started smoking in my late teens and struggled to quit for years. Eventually, I found success through sheer willpower and support from loved ones. Today, I’m passionate about spreading awareness about the dangers of smoking and encouraging others to follow in my footsteps. Quitting smoking is undoubtedly the most effective way to improve one’s health, and I hope my story can inspire others to take control of their lives and kick the habit.
Dr. Williams, is it accurate to say that quitting smoking is the only way to prevent the progression of COPD? What resources or treatments do you recommend for
