by Sara Mendez

Surgery, whether elective or required is something many will face at some point in their lives. Surgery is complicated and can have many side effects. Often the consent forms are numerous pages listing everything which could go wrong. Surgery is complicated enough without the added risks of smoking.

Surgery is something many patients will face at some point in their lives, whether elective or required. There are certain protocols in place for patients to follow before surgery such as no food twelve hours before surgery and nothing to drink. However, many physicians and anesthesiologists require their patients to quit smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery.

Anesthesiologyinfo.com explains some of the serious side effects smoking can have on the body during surgery. The heart will not function properly because smoking increases carbon monoxide causing the blood to not properly circulate. Carbon monoxide will also attach itself to hemoglobin in the blood which will decrease the amount of oxygen flowing through the blood and body. Nicotine makes the body need more oxygen which will put more stress on the heart, lungs and body which is already under distress from the anesthesia.

The lungs also prone to collapse because the small airways do not function as they should because of smoke and nicotine. Smoking causes more mucus production and the lungs are not able to clear it as quickly as they should, making the patient more prone to serious lung infections such as pneumonia and chronic coughing. Bronchospsams and other infections in the lungs can be fatal and should be taken seriously. Smoking has been linked to dozens of other side effects, ranging from heart attacks to poor wound healing by as many as six times more in smokers versus non smokers.

Doctors want their patients to lead a healthier life and have a successful surgery, so generally surgeons and physicians ask their patients to quit for two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. Many surgeons have asked for as many as four weeks before and after to insure their patients are fit for surgery. However, ideally physicians and surgeons want their patients to make smoking secession a top priority.

Over the years, quitting has become easier. This is mainly attributed to more easily available treatments. Some of the most common treatments are found over the counter, such as the nicotine patch and gum. Some patients choose to try homeopathic treatments such as herbal remedies, acupuncture and hypnosis. Prescription drugs such as Zyban and Wellbutrin have gained popularity as well. Often treatments are combined so the patient can be as successful as possible.

The most important thing is to discuss with your physician to discuss your options and find out which plan will suit you best. There are many choices and options available to help you quit, the time is now. Do not wait until you need major surgery before trying to quit, quit before you get there.

About the Author, Sara Mendez:

Patrick Glancy, NGH Board Certified Hypnotist with a focus on Quit Smoking Hypnosis. Quick Hypnosis - Self-Help Hypnosis on CD and MP3 Download. Ways to Quit smoking.

Tags: quit smoking now, stop smoking program, quit smoking program, quit smoking benefit

Tags: quit smoking benefit, stop smoking program, quit smoking now, quit smoking program