Asana Recovery

CAN CIGARETTES INCREASE YOUR RISK OF BACK PROBLEMS?

CAN CIGARETTES INCREASE YOUR RISK OF BACK PROBLEMS?

While we know these little sticks of nastiness can trigger a variety of health problems ranging from lung cancer to COPD, but did you know that cigarettes are also a leading risk factor for a painful condition called degenerative disc disease (DDD)? Ultimately, doctors have disputed the classification of this problem as a condition since many people suffer from disc degeneration over time, but each case of DDD is distinctively different. Even young people who smoke can develop back problems very early in life, which can trigger excruciating pain and poor posture later in life. So how in the world do cigarettes contribute to back problems? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

Smoking Is Trouble for Your Spine

Overall, doctors have determined that genetics are the #1 risk factor for DDD, but medical research has also confirmed that cigarette toxins are also major contributing factors to this condition. People who smoke are putting themselves at risk for degeneration of tissues in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower) regions, in particular. In this case, everyone is at risk.

Depletion of Nutrients

How do cigarettes affect the back like this? Simply put, nicotine destroys nutrients contained in the tissues surrounding spinal discs. Likewise, smokers are inhaling a ton of carbon monoxide, which, after entering the bloodstream, begins to pollute body tissues. As a result, the tissues cannot absorb the proper amount of minerals and additional nutrients to keep the spine fit and healthy. Over time, the malnourished discs begin to rupture, forcing the spine to press against nerve endings, causing moderate to severe pain.

Ultimately, the only way you can treat DDD is through major surgery in particularly severe cases, but we recommend you don’t take this plunge to begin with. Stay away from cigarettes.

Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use     

Remember that addiction can be triggered by one shot of alcohol or a single puff of a cigarette, but the true danger of this sickness is that you cannot fully determine how much you have to consume before your mind forms an attachment. Social smoking is just as dangerous as chronic smoking, on many levels, but you do not have to smoke to have a good time. Remember, drugs cannot determine if you have fun and do not have control over your life.

If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.

If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.