Smoking not only impacts the lungs but can damage the digestive system in a variety of ways. Medical research reveals that smokers face a higher risk of several GI conditions, from stomach ulcers to cancer. In fact, smoking for just two years increases stomach acid – which also increases the odds of developing serious digestive concerns.
At Charleston GI, we provide treatment for a wide range of GI issues, including those linked to smoking. Our board-certified gastroenterologists will guide your recovery from smoking-related damage, offering quality care each step of the way. Contact us today to get started!
It’s no secret that smoking is a dangerous habit. Over 7,000 toxic chemicals can be found in cigarette smoke, including more than 60 known to cause cancer and genetic damage.
With each inhale, chemicals like carbon monoxide flow into your lungs and bloodstream. But heavier substances, like the nicotine found in cigarettes, are absorbed through the skin, digestive system, and mucous membranes. Once they have entered the digestive system, these deadly chemicals leave behind tissue and organ damage. Damage to the esophagus, stomach, and liver often results in stomach pain and other unpleasant GI symptoms.
The good news is that smoking rates continue to plummet, falling from 42.6% in 1965 to 11.6% in 2022, according to the American Lung Association. But with more than one in 10 Americans still smoking, a significant portion of the population continues to put their health at risk.
SMOKING IMPACT ON YOUR GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM
Colon
Boosts the risk of colon polyps, which can lead to bowel blockages and stomach pain.
Esophagus
Weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux, heartburn, and damage to the esophagus lining.
Gallbladder
Raises the risk of gallbladder disease and bile duct cancer, often causing severe upper abdominal pain.
Liver
Reduces the liver's ability to process alcohol and other toxins, worsens liver conditions, and increases the risk of liver cancer.
Pancreas
Increases the risk of pancreatitis, leading to severe pain in the stomach, back, or chest.
Stomach
Increases stomach acid production, leading to peptic ulcers, stomach pain, bloating, and a higher risk of Helicobacter pylori infection.
Weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which enables stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
Encourages harmful bile salts to migrate from the intestine to the stomach.
Directly harms the esophagus, enhancing damage from acid reflux.
Peptic Ulcer
Increases risk of developing peptic ulcers, especially duodenal ulcers.
Makes it more difficult for ulcers to heal and more likely to be severe.
May reduce bicarbonate production, negatively impacting acid neutralization in the duodenum.
May boost secretion of stomach acid and, in turn, the risk of Helicobacter pylori infection.
Polyps
Increases risk of polyp formation in the colon.
Polyps can protrude into the intestine and may lead to colon cancer.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
If you are experiencing uncomfortable GI symptoms like stomach aches, it’s best to visit a board-certified gastroenterologist to get checked out. For regular smokers, the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal often decrease over a month after quitting. If stomach pain is severe or persistent, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.
TREATMENT
Bupropion (Zyban)
How it Works: Originally formulated as an antidepressant, it stimulates the brain areas involved in addiction to help smokers quit.
How to Use: Prescription only; take one to two tablets daily, starting one to two weeks before quitting. Treatment lasts 7 to 9 weeks.
Who Can Use: Most people over 18, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or patients with conditions like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or eating disorders.
How to Use: Available over the counter and by prescription. Most effective when paired with other forms (like gum or sprays). Treatment usually lasts 8 to 12 weeks.
Who Can Use: Adults and children over 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women (under doctor’s care)
Side Effects: Headaches, skin irritation, nose or throat irritation, insomnia, upset stomach, dizziness.
Serotonin Syndrome (Related to Bupropion)
Risk: High levels of serotonin in the brain resulting from excessive bupropion consumption or combination with certain other medications.
Action: If symptoms occur, contact a doctor or NHS 111 immediately.
Varenicline (Champix)
Current Status: Not available due to impurity concerns.
How it Worked: Cut cravings and prevented the enjoyable effects of smoking.
Who Could Use: Only available with a prescription.
Alternatives: Speak to your physician about safer options.
There’s no denying that quitting smoking is beneficial to your health. But while you’re in the process, encourage wellness by exercising regularly, eating a nutritious diet, and drinking plenty of water. Whether you currently smoke or used to, talk to your healthcare provider about routine lung cancer screenings. Screenings could potentially save your life by catching cancer in its earliest stages.
PREVENTION
Cold turkey
Quitting “cold turkey” means quitting all at once, without the assistance of medications or nicotine replacements. While this may be effective for some, cutting off your body’s nicotine supply so abruptly can be very difficult.
Nicotine replacement therapy
Often comes in the form of gum, lozenges, patches, nasal sprays, or inhalers.
Medication
Your physician might prescribe medication like bupropion or varenicline to manage withdrawal symptoms and help curb cravings.
Lifestyle changes
Increasing exercise, altering your daily routine, or using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help break your dependence on smoking.
Counseling
Involves behavioral therapies or counseling, in person or through free resources like 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
Smoking decreases life expectancy, dropping 28 minutes for every pack of cigarettes smoked. Here’s a breakdown:
Average Cigarette Smoking:
Reduces total life expectancy by 6.8 years.
Decreases disease-free life by 5.8 years.
Cigar or Pipe Smoking:
Reduces total life expectancy by 4.7 years.
Decreases disease-free life by 5.2 years.
Heavy Cigarette Smoking:
Reduces total life expectancy by 8.8 years.
Quitting Smoking at Age 40:
Increases life expectancy by 4.6 years.
Adds 3.0 more years of disease-free life.
Can vaping cause stomach pain?
Vaping refers to the use of electronic cigarettes, an alternative to traditional smoking. Also known as e-cigarettes, their chronic use may increase inflammation and damage the gut barrier that wards off diseases.
Do lungs repair after smoking?
Yes, your lungs and airways will begin to heal after you stop smoking. In fact, inflammation and mucus production slow just weeks after quitting, and within a few months, cilia regenerate. Other issues, such as infertility, may also start improving right away.
The timeline of healing is dependent on how long and how often you smoked – and how much damage was done. Some damage is irreversible, though, like that resulting from GI conditions like COPD and pulmonary fibrosis.
What is smoking?
Smoking is when you inhale and exhale smoke, often from a cigarette. After lighting the end of the cigarette, smokers pull smoke into their lungs. The smoke travels through the body’s airways and bloodstream to your brain and other organs.
Why do people smoke?
People find smoking enjoyable, despite its harmful effects. Once you start, it can be extremely difficult to stop smoking because of your brain’s cravings for nicotine. Nicotine releases chemicals in your brain, making you feel:
Relaxed and calm
Buzzed and rejuvenated
More able to concentrate on tasks
Smoking can also simply become part of your routine. It may help ease social anxiety or help you focus on work.
SCHEDULE YOUR GI APPOINTMENT TODAY, NO REFERRAL NEEDED
To learn more about treatment for GI tract issues in Charleston, SC, get in touch today! Charleston Gastroenterology is committed to a higher standard of caring, providing a range of treatments to help you feel your best.
If you are experiencing painful gastrointestinal symptoms, schedule your appointment today! No referral needed.
