What caused Adam Watkins' stroke?

Adam Watkins' stroke was caused by his 25-year smoking habit and an inherited blood disorder called polycythemia.

How much did Adam Watkins spend on cigarettes monthly?

Adam Watkins spent upwards of £200 per month on cigarettes and tobacco before quitting.

Can quitting smoking help with polycythemia?

Yes, quitting smoking can significantly improve polycythemia by reducing blood thickening and improving oxygen delivery.

Home / Health / Smoker's £200/month habit leads to life-changing stroke

Smoker's £200/month habit leads to life-changing stroke

4 Jan

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Summary

A 42-year-old man suffered a stroke due to his smoking habit.
He experienced slurred speech and loss of movement on one side.
Quitting smoking significantly improved his health and finances.

Smoker's £200/month habit leads to life-changing stroke

A 42-year-old man experienced a sudden stroke, a stark consequence of his long-standing smoking habit. Initially dismissing his symptoms of left-sided numbness and slurred speech as fatigue, his condition rapidly worsened, culminating in a medical emergency. His partner's quick recognition of facial drooping led to hospital admission, where doctors identified a transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Investigations revealed that Adam Watkins' 25-year smoking addiction, coupled with an inherited blood disorder known as polycythemia, significantly elevated his stroke risk. This condition causes an overproduction of red blood cells, which smoking further exacerbates by thickening the blood and reducing oxygen supply. The stroke served as a critical turning point for Adam.

Motivated by the health scare, Adam and his partner successfully quit smoking with support from a free NHS program. Since quitting several months ago, Adam has experienced remarkable health improvements, including enhanced senses and the disappearance of his smoker's cough. The financial savings have also been substantial, with Adam noting it feels like a pay raise.