Will the heart experience any discomfort after quitting smoking?
Disease description:
My father has pneumoconiosis and is currently quitting smoking. Recently, he mentioned that he sometimes feels discomfort in his heart. I would like to ask, after quitting smoking, is it possible to experience heart discomfort as a symptom?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
After quitting smoking, some patients may experience cardiac discomfort, but this is usually temporary and primarily due to the body adapting to the absence of nicotine.
Long-term smokers may encounter withdrawal symptoms during the early stages of quitting, as their bodies have developed dependence on nicotine and tar in cigarettes. These symptoms may include palpitations, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. Such discomfort typically gradually diminishes and disappears within two to three weeks after quitting.
Long-term smoking causes significant damage to the cardiovascular system. At the beginning of smoking cessation, the body starts its self-repair process. During this phase, physiological adjustments such as changes in heart rate and blood pressure fluctuations may occur, as nicotine previously had a stimulating effect on the heart, and the body needs time to adjust to the absence of its effects.
Although some discomfort may accompany the early phase of quitting smoking, these are normal responses as the body transitions to a healthier state, and they generally resolve naturally as the duration of smoking cessation increases. If severe or persistent cardiac symptoms arise during this process, prompt medical attention is recommended.
