Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps someone with heart failure and a low ejection fraction can take. Smoking damages blood vessels, promotes plaque buildup in arteries, and puts extra strain on an already weakened heart. The good news? Your risk starts dropping shortly after quitting — and keeps improving Show Full Answer
Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps someone with heart failure and a low ejection fraction can take. Smoking damages blood vessels, promotes plaque buildup in arteries, and puts extra strain on an already weakened heart. The good news? Your risk starts dropping shortly after quitting — and keeps improving over time. As for quitting methods, there's no single "best" approach — it really depends on what works for the individual. Here are the main options:
- Cold turkey: Some people find success stopping all at once. As one MyHeartDiseaseTeam member shared, "I quit smoking cold turkey last month, and just wish I did it sooner."
- Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Patches, gum, or lozenges help ease cravings and withdrawal symptoms gradually.
- Gradual reduction: Slowly cutting down the number of cigarettes before a set quit date.
- Prescription medications: A doctor can prescribe medications to help manage cravings and withdrawal.
Withdrawal symptoms like irritability or fatigue are normal but temporary. Finding healthy distractions — a short walk, calling a friend — can really help bridge those tough moments.
Always talk to a cardiologist before starting any quit plan, especially with a low ejection fraction, to make sure the chosen method is safe for the heart.
May 10
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