Smoking causes major risks to our health as proven by studies. It’s immediate and progressive effects have been pointed out through different warnings, advertisements and health reviews. As harmless and less serious as it can be (compared to other adverse effects like cancer and lung diseases), back pain is one of the side effects that indicates a sign leading to spinal illnesses.
Several studies have been conducted to determine the actual link between chronic back pains to smoking. While other factors in our lifestyles should be taken into consideration, the connection between back pain and people who smoke is more evident compared to those that do not.
The nicotine content found in cigarettes decreases the production of bone cells and different sorts of protein in the body. Osteoblast is a cell that forms and builds bone tissue. The consumption of nicotine has a diminishing effect on the formation of this cell that can lead to bone related conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis.
Smoking also plays a chief role in the occurrence of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a disease wherein plaque builds up insides our arteries (Cited: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/atherosclerosis). Arteries serve as the passageway for sending oxygenated blood to several parts of the body.
As the plaque expands in size, the passage becomes narrow thereby affecting the smooth flow of oxygen and nutrients. This directly affects the spine especially during the presence of pain or injury. With decreased supply of oxygen and nutrients, the spine will have a reduced capability of healing itself, thus contributing to back pain in general.
Another reason why smokers are more prone to back pain is the habit they form. Smoker’s cough a lot especially heavy smokers. This is totally different from the usual cough brought about by cold weather.
This is more serious because it indicates the impairment of cilia in the lungs. Cilia are tiny hairs in the lungs that fight toxins and paralyzing these fine hairs means exposing and making the lungs more vulnerable to illnesses. Excessive coughing brings stress to the chest and back.
Still, it is never too late. Studies show that those who quit smoking have improved conditions and experience fewer episodes of back pain. Drop that stick now and start living a healthy lifestyle for a longer life.
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