AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on tobacco addiction, and resources for quitting.
Information on current cancer research and the health effects of tobacco.
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
The best place to start is 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Question Hi there. I was told to stop smoking immediately 7 weeks ago as they did a brain scan and saw calcification of canals in the brain. So i did, cold turkey. Am feeling awesome except for the phlem. There are some mornings that the phlem is so bad, it feels like i have smoked 300 cigarettes in 1 hour. Is this normal. Thanks - Tan
Answer Dear Tania,
It is quite normal for it to take some time for your lungs to recover, and many quitters report a variety of congestion, coughing and other problems.
How long did you smoke and how much?
A humidifier, herbal teas, hot pads and gradually increasing exercise should help. If not better in a few weeks, I would see a doctor to make sure you don't have an infection.
Michael
PS I visited Capetown a few years ago and loved it!
