Can damage from smoking be reversed?

Smoking damage can definitely be reversed—and the positive effects begin immediately. Once you quit, your heart rate and blood pressure start to drop from abnormally high to healthier levels. The carbon monoxide in your blood slowly decreases, allowing your blood cells to carry more and more oxygen. After a few weeks, your circulation will begin to improve as your arteries heal. You’ll also cough or wheeze less. Your heart function will improve and you won’t feel out of breath so easily. Your lung function will improve even more after several months of being smoke-free.