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 I quit smoking 3 weeks ago , I actually quit 5 wks ago but I used NRT for two weeks. So I consider myself without nicotine x 3 wks. Anyways, a few days ago I noticed that I am extremely tired, and I am not coughing or producing sputum, but i have a strange sensation in my chest, like I am gasping for air. Thanks for your thoughts.
Kristina
Answer Dear Kristina,
Congrats on quitting. That is fantastic. You sound very determined to stay quit, and that is the most important thing for success.
A cough or congestion after quitting is normal, normal but I am concerned about the sounds of your symptoms and think that you should see a doctor.
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.
A vaporizer, herbal tea, fresh air and exercise wold probably help, but the shortness of breath you describe should be looked at. Have you ever had asthma or any other lung condition? Do you have bad allergies?
I hope this helps,
Good luck,
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
