Why Some People Develop a Cough After They Quit Smoking
Smoking damages the lungs in a variety of ways.
But understanding why this symptom happens can help you find ways to cope with it.
It also covers some of the things you’re free to do to help ease your cough.
Verywell / JR Bee
Cigarette smoke paralyzes and damages the cilia; when you stop smoking, the cilia start to function again.
What Are Cilia?
Cilia are tiny, hair-like projections on the surfaces of cells in your airways.
They are mobile and work to move mucus up and out of your lungs.
Cilia create a protective barrier between the outside world and the delicate tissue of the lungs.
The bronchial tubes in healthy lungs are lined with a thin coating of mucus and cilia.
Once the mucus reaches the throat, it’s either coughed out or swallowed.
Recap
Cilia are tiny hair-like projections in the lungs that clean out pollutants.
How Smoking Affects Cilia
Cigarette smoke contains thousands ofchemicalsthat can damage the lungs.
Once you quit, those cilia become active again.
This cough is a good thing
While it might be irritating, coughing is a good sign.
It means your lungs are healing and functioning more normally.
You may notice that the cough is dry at first.
How long does the cough last after quitting smoking?
However, it is important to recognize that these symptoms are temporary.
They are signs that your body is healing from the damage that tobacco has inflicted.
It’s worth the work it takes, and the benefits are undeniable.
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