Ways to get rid of the Smoking

Ways to get rid of the addiction named Smoking

Times of India Bangalore - May 31, 2009

HELP AT HAND Psychiatry professor at Nimhans, Dr Pratima Murthy, says tobacco users who fail to give up the habit should seek medical consultation. The institute’s Tobacco Association Clinic helps those addicted to cigarettes or other forms of tobacco. “It is not easy to quit because of the powerful nature of nicotine addiction. A combination of counselling, NRT and medication is necessary in most cases. It is recommended for three months,” she said. The centre receives 350-400 persons every year. Of these, only 18-20% are able to quit. Many leave with reduced nicotine use, but most drop out early.
 

WHAT IS NRT?
Nicotine, in lesser doses, is given in different forms like gum or patches
It’s a short-term solution; has side-effects Nicotine patches: Stuck to the skin and slowly release constant amount of nicotine into the blood Nicotine gum: Releases nicotine slowly into the mouth
Nicotine nasal spray: Used like any other nasal spray
Nicotine inhaler: It has a holder that contains nicotine; inhaler delivers a puff of nicotine vapour into mouth and throat KILLING THE URGE
    

The therapy helps lessen nicotine withdrawal and the urge to smoke. When one inhales tobacco smoke, the nicotine moves quickly from the lungs to the bloodstream. Replacement products take longer — Dr Isaac Mathew | RESPIRATORY MEDICINE CONSULTANT
 

One can use NRT therapy products available in stores. Preferably, it should be taken under the supervison of a qualified doctor for controlled dosage and period of use. However, there is only 10-15% success rate — Dr Ganesh Iyer | CARDIO-VASCULAR SURGEON
 

TYPES OF QUITTING 

Cold Turkey: one decides to stop smoking abruptly Gradual reduction in number of cigarettes 

HARD FACTS 

>Tobacco is second major cause of death across the world
>One in ten tobacco deaths is due to brain death
>Five million die due to tobacco-related diseases per year Smokers are three times more prone to lung cancer
>Smokers are also three times prone to heart diseases
>Women smokers five times more prone to lung cancer than men