Smoking. For most people, it’s one of those habits that’s hard to quit. Even though many smokers have been encouraged by family and friends to stop, most have had a hard time saying no to nicotine. While quitting is hard to do, perhaps if those who use tobacco products knew how smoking can increase the risk of urologic conditions, then maybe they would be more motivated to find ways to stop.
Here are a few things to consider if you do smoke:
1. YOUR ORGANS ARE AFFECTED
Did you know that almost every organ, cell and system in your body can be adversely affected by just smoking ONE cigarette? There are toxins and chemicals that are inhaled, build up in your body slowly but surely over time. These carcinogens can lead to cancer, cardiovascular disease, strokes and more.
2. RISK OF BLADDER CANCER
One of the most serious urological consequences of smoking is an increased risk of bladder cancer. Chemicals in tobacco smoke are absorbed into the bloodstream and then filtered by the kidneys into the urine. These carcinogenic compounds in the urine can damage the lining of the bladder, which increases the risk of cancer. Studies have shown that smokers are at least three times more likely to develop bladder cancer than non-smokers.
3. RISK OF KIDNEY CANCER
Smoking is also a major risk factor for kidney cancer. The kidneys handle the body's filtration and waste removal processes, and thus they are constantly exposed to toxins from smoked tobacco. Over time, the exposure to these toxins can lead to renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of kidney cancer. Smokers are about twice as likely to develop kidney cancer compared to non-smokers.
4. POSSIBLE ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
For men, smoking can have a direct impact on sexual health, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED). Smoking affects blood flow throughout the body, including to the genital region. The chemicals in cigarettes cause blood vessels to narrow and harden, reducing blood flow necessary for an erection. Moreover, smoking can damage the lining of blood vessels, further impairing erectile function.
5. RISK OF HAVING URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Smokers are more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Smoking impairs the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections, including those affecting the urinary tract. Additionally, frequent coughing associated with smoking can lead to pelvic floor disorders, which may cause incomplete bladder emptying and increase the risk of UTIs.
6. RISK OF OVERACTIVE BLADDER AND URINARY INCONTINENCE
Nicotine, a potent stimulant found in cigarettes, can exacerbate symptoms of an overactive bladder. It stimulates the bladder muscles, causing urgent and frequent needs to urinate. Furthermore, chronic coughing from smoking increases abdominal pressure, which can lead to stress urinary incontinence, particularly in women. This is characterized by leaking urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure like coughing or laughing.
VITALITY PLUS UROLOGY CAN HELP
Smoking is widely recognized for its detrimental effects on lung health, but its impact extends far beyond, influencing various systems within the body, including the urological system. The harmful impact of smoking on urological health is clear and significant. It not only increases the risk of several cancers but also affects sexual and urinary function. Quitting smoking can greatly reduce these risks and improve overall urological health.
If it’s your time to quit, talk to your doctor for medical and/or behavior therapy suggestions. If you are experiencing any of these urological issues listed above, or would like to discuss your personal risk, contact Vitality Plus Urology today. We can help get you back on the road to recovery!
