How to quit smoking

What happens when you quit

The sooner you quit, the sooner you’ll notice changes to your body and health. Look at what happens when you quit for good.

After 20 minutes
Check your pulse rate, it will already be starting to return to normal.

After 8 hours
Your oxygen levels are recovering, and the harmful carbon monoxide level in your blood will have reduced by half.

After 48 hours
Your carbon monoxide levels have dropped to that of a non-smoker. Your lungs are clearing out mucus and your senses of taste and smell are improving.

After 72 hours
If you notice that breathing feels easier, it’s because your bronchial tubes have started to relax. Also your energy will be increasing.

After 2 to 12 weeks
Blood will be pumped more efficiently through your heart and muscles because your circulation has improved.

After 3 to 9 months
Any coughs, wheezing or breathing problems will be improving as your lung function increases by up to 10%.

After 1 year
Great news! Your risk of heart attack will have halved compared with a smoker’s.

After 10 years
More great news! Your risk of death from lung cancer will have halved compared with a smoker’s.

NHS Better Health

The NHS Quit Smoking app is designed to provide you with personalised support to help you quit smoking for good.

The app allows you to:

• track your progress
• see how much you’re saving
• get daily support
• get inspired by others

Once you reach 28 days smoke-free, you’re much more likely to quit for good!