Ocean Keys Family Practice

If you are a smoker and need assistance or support giving up, or have a smoking related illness we'd be happy to help. At Ocean Keys Family Practice, we understand the need for a supportive doctor. You can be assured that you will be treated with understanding, professionalism and respect. Make an appointment with one of our award winning doctors.

Smoking

There is a reason cigarettes come with warning labels. Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical but there are also around 7,000 other chemicals in cigarette smoke. Several of these chemicals cause major and profound changes to the human body. Some of the most damaging components of tobacco smoke are tar, carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, metals like arsenic and cadmium, oxidizing chemicals, and radioactive compounds.

Smoking affects nearly every bodily system and nearly every organ. Tobacco smoke has a profound negative effect on the respiratory system that can include reduced lung function and permanent damage to the air sacs of the lungs. Tobacco smoke negatively impacts the circulatory system which can result in raised blood pressure, damage to the lining of the arteries, and an increased risk of stroke. Smoking also has further negative effects on the immune system, the musculoskeletal system, and even the sex organs. Smokers are at an increased risk of developing a number of diseases including various cancers, lung diseases, heart disease, ulcers, osteoporosis, and poor circulation that could lead to gangrene or amputation in severe cases. Because of the disastrous consequences of smoking on the human body, it's vitally necessary to quit.