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Smoking Can Increase Covid Severity Risk; Tips To Quit The Habit

There are many factors that can lead to severe Covid-19, and smoking is one of them. Here is how smoking can increase Covid risk and some ways you can manage it.

Written by Arushi Bidhuri | Updated : September 28, 2021 8:01 PM IST

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Smoking Increases Covid Hospitalisation Risk By 80%

A new study published in the respiratory journal Thorax found that smokers were 80% more likely to be admitted to the hospital and had a higher risk of dying from Covid-19. According to the findings, a genetic propensity to smoking was linked to a 45 per cent increased chance of infection and a 60 per cent increased risk of hospitalisation for Covid-19. It also revealed that a genetic proclivity to smoke heavily was linked to a more than doubling of the risk of infection, a five-fold rise in the risk of hospitalisation, and a ten-fold increase in the risk of mortality from the virus.

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The Study

The researchers looked at almost 420,000 patients' Covid-19 test results, hospital admissions data, and death certificates for the study. There were 51 Covid admissions among nearly 14,000 smokers, equating to one in every 270 hospitalizations. Up to 36 people died because of the infection, corresponding to one in every 384 people. On the other hand, there were 440 hospitalizations among the 250,000 nonsmokers or one in approximately 600. There were also 159 Covid deaths, or one in every 1,666 people, according to the researchers. Also Read - Are ultra-processed foods hurting your bones? Study shares key findings

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Quit Smoking To Avoid Complications

Not only Covid-19, but smoking increases the risk of many diseases including heart diseases, cancer, stroke, diabetes, lung diseases and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also increases the risk of tuberculosis, some eye diseases and immune system problems. Even secondhand smoke can be harmful to those around you. So, what are you thinking about? Here are some ways to quit smoking.

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Nicotine Replacement Therapy Could Work

Nicotine withdrawal can cause headaches, impair your mood, and drain your energy when you stop smoking. It's difficult to resist the urge to take "just one drag." Nicotine replacement therapy can help you control your cravings. When used in conjunction with a quit-smoking programme, studies show that nicotine gum, lozenges, and patches increase your chances of success.

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Avoid The Triggers

What’s your trigger? Do you have a habit of smoking after you eat? Find something else to do post-meal. Limit your alcohol intake as it can make it difficult for you to stick to your goal of quitting. Some people have a habit of smoking while drinking coffee, you can try sipping a cup of tea instead. Chewing gum, taking a walk, brushing your teeth are some ways to divert your mind.

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Exercise Helps

Did you know being physically active helps curb nicotine cravings? Being physically active can help to reduce nicotine cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Instead of reaching for a cigarette, slip on your inline skates or jogging sneakers. Mild exercise, such as walking your dog or removing weeds in the garden, is beneficial. As you quit smoking, the calories you expend will keep you from gaining weight. Also Read - When is the right time to see cornea specialists? Expert reveals hidden eye risks you should never ignore

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Switch To A Healthy Diet

Some of you might be thinking ‘what does diet get to do with quitting smoking?’ But studies have shown that dieting can make things worse for people who want to quit smoking. Depriving your body too much can quickly backfire. Keep things simple by increasing your intake of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein. These are beneficial to your entire body.