Why do some people die after quitting smoking

Death after quitting smoking is an extreme case, usually not directly related to the smoking cessation behavior itself, but caused by sudden onset of underlying diseases or improper smoking cessation methods due to long-term smoking. The main associated factors include compensatory dysfunction of the cardiovascular system, acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, psychological stress response, uncontrolled underlying diseases, and poor nicotine withdrawal management.

1. Compensatory disorders in the cardiovascular system

Long term smokers have their blood vessels in a contracted state, and sudden vasodilation after quitting smoking may lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Patients with pre-existing coronary artery stenosis may experience myocardial hypoperfusion, which can trigger acute coronary syndrome. This situation is more common in elderly smokers with hypertension and arteriosclerosis. It is recommended to gradually quit smoking under the supervision of a doctor.

2. Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Heavy smokers may experience increased sputum discharge after the recovery of lung ciliary function. If patients with chronic bronchitis do not cooperate with respiratory management, they may experience respiratory failure due to phlegm blockage. When this group of people quit smoking, they should also undergo lung function rehabilitation training and use bronchodilators if necessary.

3. Psychological stress response

The anxiety, depression, and other emotions caused by sudden smoking cessation may exacerbate pre-existing mental illnesses. People with a history of depression may have suicidal tendencies, and cardiovascular disease patients may experience arrhythmia due to stress hormone secretion. It is recommended that high-risk individuals use medication to assist in smoking cessation and cooperate with psychological interventions.

4. Uncontrolled underlying diseases

Smoking may mask clinical symptoms of certain diseases, such as gastric ulcer pain suppressed by nicotine. When symptoms appear after quitting smoking, the disease has progressed to the late stage. If the appetite of diabetes patients recovers after quitting smoking but the insulin dosage is not adjusted, it may also cause severe hypoglycemia.

5. Poor nicotine withdrawal management

When using nicotine replacement therapy on one's own, excessive use of patches may lead to nicotine poisoning. Patients with combined liver and kidney dysfunction have decreased metabolic capacity and are more prone to adverse reactions such as palpitations and seizures. It is recommended to develop a personalized smoking cessation plan under the guidance of a professional physician. Quitting smoking is essentially a healthy behavior, but heavy smokers should adopt scientific smoking cessation strategies. It is recommended that people who have been smoking for more than 20 years and consume more than 20 cigarettes per day undergo a comprehensive physical examination to evaluate their cardiovascular function before quitting smoking, and monitor changes in blood pressure and blood sugar during the smoking cessation process. You can seek professional guidance from a smoking cessation clinic and use a gradual reduction method combined with exercise therapy to avoid sudden cessation of nicotine intake. At the same time, pay attention to supplementing vitamin B and vitamin C to help repair oxidative damage. Maintaining sufficient sleep and water intake can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms. If you experience persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing, or mental abnormalities, seek medical attention immediately.