Talking about Smoking Cessation with your Doctor: Do's and Don'ts

DO

Bring up the topic of smoking at the beginning of your next visit.

Reason: Mentioning your desire to quit smoking right away will help your doctor set aside time to talk about quitting during your appointment.

Clearly state that smoking is a problem you'd like to work on.

Example: "I think I'm ready to quit smoking. Can we talk about what might be the best options for me?"

Reason: Clear comments and questions help the doctor know you are serious about quitting and tell him or her that this is an important topic to focus on during your appointment.

If possible, schedule a visit to specifically talk about smoking cessation.

Reason: Quitting smoking is a challenging task. A separate visit allows time to fully discuss options and make the choices that best fit your needs.

Be honest with your doctor about the extent of your smoking.

Reason: Your doctor is not there to judge you--he or she realizes how addictive smoking can be. If you aren't honest about how much you smoke, your doctor may not prescribe the proper amount of nicotine replacement medication or may not be able to provide you with the treatment options that are right for you, both of which will cut down your chances of success.

Tell your doctor if you are experiencing problems with a smoking cessation plan she or he had suggested for you.

Example: "You said that I should try changing activities if I'm bored and start to crave a cigarette. The problem is, I still crave the cigarette even after changing activities. What should I do?"

Reason: Different types of smoking cessation strategies work for different people. Letting your doctor know something isn't working for you allows her or him the opportunity to suggest an alternative that may work better.

Do be clear and direct at all times--your doctor needs clear information to do his or her job.

DON'T

Don't use hints or offhand comments as a way to tell your physician about your desire to quit.

Example: "I've been smoking way too much lately."

Instead: "Doctor, my smoking worries me, and I think I'd like to talk about quitting.

Don't put yourself down about not being able to quit in the past.

Example: "I tried quitting, but I must not have much willpower."

Reason: Your physician understands that stopping smoking often takes multiple attempts, that nicotine is physically addictive, and that quitting is not a matter of "willpower." She or he needs to know in plain, clear language that you would like help to try again.

Instead: "I've tried to quit smoking two other times in the past and need some help, doctor. The first time I just stopped cold turkey and couldn't get past the 2nd day. The 2nd time I used those nicotine patches, but started smoking again as soon as they ran out. Can you give me any suggestions or other options?"

Don't start "over-the-counter" Nicotine Replacement Therapy without checking with your doctor to see if it is appropriate for you to use.

Reason: Some medical conditions, like high blood pressure or heart disease, and some medications, including certain antidepressants and asthma drugs, may require your dose to be adjusted or may increase risk if Nicotine Replacement products are used.

Don't be embarrassed--your doctor is here to help, not to judge.