Lesser Known Health Issues Caused By Smoking

Whenever you think about the health hazards of smoking, lung cancer and heart disease are the risks that come to mind. But do you know that these are not the only issues a smoker may face? There are numerous other health problems a person may encounter when he smokes. Cigarette smoke contains more than 100 chemicals. When you smoke a cigarette, it leads to the formation of carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene, etc. that can severely damage the body. Moreover, those around you are affected by second-hand smoke as they breathe in the same toxic chemicals.

Thus, it is important to understand that cigarette smoking does not affect only the lungs and heart, but can impact other organs as well. In this article, we will understand the lesser known health issues caused by smoking and how having comprehensive health insurance from Bajaj General Insurance can protect you in case of medical emergencies and hospitalisation.

How the Chemicals in Smoke Damage Your Body?

Cigarettes contain tobacco which contains nicotine. Intake of nicotine releases a chemical called dopamine. When you smoke, dopamine makes you feel happy and gives you energy. However, this effect is short-lived and as the nicotine level in the body fades, the brain craves more dopamine which leads to addiction.

Let us understand how the chemicals in smoking damage the body in several ways.

• Nicotine: Nicotine affects the veins and arteries and reduces the flow of oxygen in the body.
• Tiny particles: These particles irritate the throat and cause cough.
• Cancer causing chemicals: The chemicals in cigarettes can cause cancer of the mouth, throat, lungs, oesophagus, bladder, kidney, stomach, colon, rectum, etc.
• Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide can cause breathlessness, reduce oxygen supply to the body, and affect cognitive function.
• Tar: Tar is the sticky residue from burnt tobacco that coats the lungs, making breathing difficult.
• Phenols: Phenols present in smoke lead to cardiovascular diseases.
• Formaldehyde: Formed due to the burning of sugars and cellulose in tobacco, formaldehyde is a group 1 carcinogen.
• Benzene: It is also a known carcinogen.

Health Risk of Smoking

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), use of tobacco is the cause of death of more than 7 million people world-wide. This figure includes a staggering 1.6 million non-smokers. Smoking is also the number one preventable cause of death. Understand the health risk of this hazardous addiction that can damage almost every organ in the body.

Ocular Conditions

Smoking can gradually harm your vision. It increases the chance of cataracts, which result in blurry vision early in life. It can also cause irreversible loss of vision. Losing your eyesight can impact day-to-day activities.

Dental Issues

When you smoke, it first enters your mouth and nose. It can cause the teeth to weaken and affect your gums. Also bad breath and gum infections can develop due to smoking. Even if you brush regularly, you may need to undergo dental surgery.

Weak Bones and Early Osteoporosis

Smoking reduces the bone mineral density (BMD), increasing the risk of fractures in the hip. It affects calcium absorption in the body and slows down fracture healing. This can make fractures more severe and healing longer.

Fertility Problems

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), women who smoke may face infertility problems, complications during birth, and birth defects like cleft lip. Tobacco also affects sperm quality in men, as smoking negatively impacts hormone production.

Skin Problems

Smoking also affects the skin by reducing oxygen supply in the body, causing premature ageing, wrinkles, dark complexion, and uneven spots. It can lead to flaky patches on the skin and dryness.

Digestive Issues

Tobacco impacts the liver function, leading to tissue and cell damage in the gut. It can cause digestive disorders like peptic ulcers, Crohn’s disease, gallstones, pancreatitis, heartburn and reflux.

Mental Health

Even though smoking provides temporary relief due to the intake of nicotine, in the long run, it increases anxiety and depression.

Cognitive Function

Smoking causes cognitive decline by shrinking the brain and causing neurotransmitter imbalance. Studies have also shown that smoking leads to memory decline and impaired verbal abilities.

Effect on Immune System

Smoking affects the cell function and damages immunity cells like macrophages and neutrophils. The overall immune system is weakened and may lead to middle ear infections, atopic diseases, and autoimmune disorders.

Diabetes and Infections

Smokers are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, and those affected by type 1 diabetes may face severe problems. It also increases the occurrence of bacterial and viral infections in the body.

The health risks of smoking may lead to frequent hospitalisations and the need of medical care. Hence, it is advisable to have a comprehensive health insurance plan from a trusted insurer like Bajaj General Insurance to take care of your healthcare needs.

How to Stay Away from Health Issues Caused by Smoking?

To avoid the health issues caused by smoking, individuals should never start smoking in the first place and avoid second-hand smoke. If you are currently smoking, quitting is the best way to stay away from all the health hazards of smoking. You may rely on medication, counselling, and support groups to give away your addiction. Identify and manage certain triggers that can help you manage your habit, like if you smoke after a meal, go for a walk instead. Avoid places or situations where you usually smoke. Stay active, stay hydrated, practice yoga and deep breathing exercises. Eat well and stay hydrated.

Importance of Health Insurance

Smoking can drain the financial resources of individuals and families. A single surgery can cost thousands to lakhs of rupees. This is where having health insurance is important so that families need not struggle with the hospitalisation expenses.

Bajaj General Insurance offers health plans that cover hospitalisation, surgeries, and post-treatment care. You also get cashless treatment at 18,400+ network hospitals across India. With options like critical illness or accident cover, you can protect yourself and your family from sudden financial shocks.

Conclusion

Smoking is not just about the effect on your lungs or heart. It can silently impact your eyes, teeth, brain, digestive system, immunity, and every other body organ. Quitting smoking can slowly reduce the risks and help you get back on track. Exercise daily, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and go for preventive screenings.

For complete protection, combine healthy habits with the right health insurance. With Bajaj General Insurance, you get both financial support with health insurance online and peace of mind against smoking-related health issues.

FAQs

1. What are some lesser-known health risks of smoking?

Apart from lung cancer, health risk of smoking includes eye problems, osteoporosis, digestive issues, infertility, skin ageing, and weak immunity.

2. How does smoking affect bone health?

It reduces calcium absorption and slows down bone growth, making bones weaker and prone to fractures.

3. Can smoking cause digestive problems?

Yes. It increases the risk of ulcers, Crohn’s disease, and acid reflux.

4. Is second-hand smoke harmful?

Yes. Passive smoking can cause similar health issues, especially in children and pregnant women.

5. Does health insurance cover smoking-related illnesses?

Many health insurance plans, including Bajaj General Insurance, cover treatment for diseases linked to smoking, unless specifically excluded in the policy.

6. How can I buy health insurance online?

You can visit the Bajaj General Insurance website, compare different plans, choose the one that fits your needs, and buy it securely online. 

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.