Regretting Smoking: A 20-Year-Old's Journey to Quit and Heal

Q: Regretting Smoking: A 20-Year-Old's Journey to Quit and Heal

Hello, A-Jia/0/20： Recently, you must be feeling quite unwell. <br>After seeing a doctor and undergoing numerous tests, it seems that no physiological abnormalities have been found, which is indeed concerning. <br>Based on your symptoms, there are many that are related to anxiety

I now regret ever smoking! I'm also afraid that it might be too late?

Hello.
I am 20 years old and live in Fengyuan.
I started smoking in high school, and at first, I didn't smoke much, but now, after four years, I am close to smoking three packs a day.
Smoking has disrupted my daily routine, causing me to feel overly excited and unable to sleep at night.
On January 27 of this year, I began to experience symptoms; I noticed something was off when I woke up in the morning, feeling dizzy and unsteady while walking.
I became pessimistic, so I decided to quit smoking immediately.
However, as the days went by, my symptoms worsened, and I developed many unexplained issues.
I had blood tests done, which revealed high cholesterol levels: HDL cholesterol at 45.9 mg/dL and LDL plus VLDL cholesterol at 191.1 mg/dL.
I then underwent an abdominal ultrasound, and the results were normal.
However, as time passed, my discomfort did not improve, and I started experiencing more strange symptoms.
I became very anxious, worrying that I might not live long, fearing it could be terminal cancer, or the early signs of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases.
I was concerned about this and that.
Consequently, I visited a general internist at Hsin Feng Hospital and a neurologist at the Provincial Fengyuan Hospital.
I consulted many doctors, and they all said there was nothing seriously wrong, suggesting it might be caused by my anxiety or some form of dysregulation.
After taking medication, I still felt no improvement and instead felt increasingly strange.
Currently, my symptoms include a strange sense of balance, dizziness, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, poor physical stamina, shortness of breath with slight exertion, chest tightness, and palpitations, sometimes with a slow heart rate and other times with a rapid heart rate that causes chest discomfort.
On the surface, I appear healthy because I have adjusted my routine, going to bed early and waking up early, and I have quit smoking.
However, I still feel unwell.
I am very worried that I might have a serious illness and that my time may be limited.

A-Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/25

Dr. Li Fuchun reply Smoking Cessation

Hello, A-Jia/0/20: Recently, you must be feeling quite unwell.
After seeing a doctor and undergoing numerous tests, it seems that no physiological abnormalities have been found, which is indeed concerning.
Based on your symptoms, there are many that are related to anxiety disorders.
However, the underlying causes or etiology of these symptoms are not easily discernible from your description.
I understand that you are currently actively working to restore normal lifestyle habits, including exercise, smoking cessation, and maintaining a regular daily routine; it is important to continue these efforts.
Since there are many uncertainties that need to be addressed in person, please prepare your test reports and schedule an appointment during my clinic hours (www.fyh.doh.gov.tw/ online registration/ Family Medicine Department) for further assistance.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Li Fu-Chun.

Reply Date: 2005/02/25

More Info

It's commendable that you've recognized the need to quit smoking at such a young age, especially after experiencing concerning health symptoms. Smoking can have profound effects on both physical and mental health, and your journey reflects the challenges many face when trying to quit.

Firstly, it's important to understand that smoking affects nearly every organ in the body. The symptoms you're experiencing, such as dizziness, balance issues, and chest discomfort, can be linked to both the physiological effects of smoking and the psychological aspects of nicotine withdrawal. When you quit smoking, your body goes through a period of adjustment as it begins to heal from the damage caused by tobacco. This healing process can sometimes manifest as various symptoms, including anxiety and physical discomfort.

Your elevated cholesterol levels are also a concern. High LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which is particularly alarming given your smoking history. However, it's worth noting that quitting smoking can lead to improvements in cholesterol levels over time. The body has a remarkable ability to heal, and many former smokers see significant health improvements within months of quitting.

The anxiety and fear you're experiencing are common among those who have recently quit smoking. It's not unusual to worry about potential health issues, especially after having experienced symptoms that are difficult to explain. However, it's crucial to focus on the positive steps you're taking, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, adjusting your sleep schedule, and seeking medical advice. The fact that multiple doctors have reassured you that there are no significant health issues is a positive sign. It suggests that while your symptoms are real and distressing, they may be more related to anxiety and withdrawal than to a severe underlying condition.

To address your concerns and improve your overall well-being, consider the following strategies:
1. Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, which can help alleviate anxiety and improve your cardiovascular health. Start with light exercises like walking or yoga, and gradually increase the intensity as your body adjusts.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help manage anxiety and improve your mental clarity. These techniques can also help you cope with cravings and stress without resorting to smoking.

3. Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This can help lower cholesterol levels and improve your overall health. Staying hydrated is also essential.

4. Support Systems: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your journey. Consider joining a support group for individuals trying to quit smoking. Sharing experiences with others can provide encouragement and motivation.

5. Professional Help: If anxiety continues to be a significant issue, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They can provide strategies to manage anxiety and help you cope with the psychological aspects of quitting smoking.

6. Follow-Up Medical Care: Continue to monitor your health with regular check-ups. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice. Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is crucial.

Remember, quitting smoking is a process, and it's normal to face challenges along the way. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey. Your body is capable of healing, and with time and the right support, you can regain your health and well-being.

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