12 Everyday Habits That May Disrupt Your Health

Smoking is a major risk factor for multiple types of cancer (lung, throat, stomach) and chronic disease. “There’s no “safe” amount of tobacco use; even light or social smoking can cause lasting damage,” says Dr. Juneja. “This includes hookah as well–if not worse.”

“Frequent use of decongestant sprays such as Afrin or Neosynephrine can cause ‘rebound congestion,’ where the nose becomes more stuffy the longer the spray is used or stopped abruptly,” says Dr. Farmer. “Instead, I’d recommend using a nasal steroid like Flonase or Nasacort. “

Chronic sleep deprivation isn’t just about feeling tired. “Poor sleep quietly drives up blood pressure, worsens insulin resistance, and significantly increases stroke and heart attack risk,” says Lily Johnston, MD, vascular surgeon with Scripps Clinic.

According to Dr. Johnston, avoiding checkups and screenings means conditions like high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol go undetected for years. “These ‘silent killers’ don’t cause symptoms at first, but they’re quietly damaging your arteries and can show up later as heart disease, stroke, or peripheral artery disease (PAD),” she tells Good Housekeeping. Regular preventive care catches these problems when they’re most treatable, long before they become emergencies.

Do you drink water from bottles often? You may want to think twice next time you pick up a bottle. “Not only are single-use plastics detrimental to our environment, but they can also be harmful to our health,” says Dr. Brown. “Microplastic particles accumulate in our bodies, including the brain so it’s best to opt for glass food storage containers and stainless steel reusable water bottles.”

According to Brown, one of the most detrimental habits a person can develop is the routine consumption of sugary beverages, including sodas, energy drinks, and fruit juices. “Sugary beverages are packed with empty calories that do little to curb appetite, and can lead to chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity,” she says. “It’s better to stick with plain water as much as possible.”

If you find yourself constantly asking someone to repeat themselves or having to raise the volume, then you don’t want to put off getting that checked out. “Ignoring early signs of hearing loss can delay treatment, strain the brain, and increase the risk of social isolation and cognitive decline,” says Dr. Farmer. “Studies have shown that unaided hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia.”

In today’s busy world many people skip exercise because they don’t feel like they have time, but physical activity and exercise are critical to maintaining health. “Taking the stairs and parking at the far end of the lot are ways to get more steps into your day,” says Dr. Alex McDonald, MD, family medicine doctor and assistant professor of clinical science at Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine.