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 Mr. Dean, I have recently just finished reading Allen Carr's book on the easyway to quit smoking and I have quit 5 days ago. I am 33 yrs old and I had been smoking for 15 years usually a pack a day. Since I have quit I have congestion with phlem that is brownish in color and my throat is sore almost raw, a burning feeling, is this normal as the body recovers? Thank you very much for your time.
Answer Dear Sue,
Congrats on quitting. I am glad that Carr's book helped.
A cough and congestion after quitting is quite normal. One of the first things that happens is that the cilia in your lungs grow back. These are the small hairs that line your lung and sweep out debris.
Try some herbal tea or some cough drops. I would suggest ramping up your exercise. swimming is a great way to build back lung function.If it doesn't go away in a few more weeks you should probably see a doctor.
Good luck, and keep in touch with your progress,
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
