Stopping smoking is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of stroke - no matter how old you are or how long you have smoked. Even cutting down can reduce stroke risk.
Smokers are twice as likely to die from a stroke, compared to people who don’t smoke.
Help to stop smoking
There are different types of medication available either on prescription or to buy from a pharmacy or supermarket. Speak to your GP or a Stop Smoking Service about what is best for you.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): patches, gum, lozenges, microtabs, inhalators and nasal sprays
- Champix tablets (varenicline)
- Zyban tablets (bupropion)
Click here for more information about the medication above.
- e-cigarettes allow you to inhale nicotine in a vapour rather than smoke, which is less harmful than cigarettes. They are most effective if used with support from an NHS stop smoking service. E-cigarettes are not currently available on prescription.
Click here for more information about e-cigarettes.
Tips to stop smoking
1. Remember your motivations to quit
- Common motivations are family, health or finances.
- Make a list and keep it to hand for when you are tempted.
2. Tell people you're quitting
- If you tell people, you have more accountability.
3. Have a plan if you are tempted to smoke
- A craving can last 5 minutes, make a list of 5-minute strategies to cope with cravings.
4. Know your smoking triggers and how to avoid them
- Make a list of your triggers and strategies to avoid them.
5. Keep cravings at bay by keeping busy and exercising
- Keep your hands and mouth busy e.g. hold your drink in the hand you smoke with.
Helpful resources
- NHS Smoking Helpline: 0300 123 1044