Expert: Michael Dean - 9/17/2009

Question
I finally quit a 30 pack-year habit.  It wasn't easy, but with some nicotine patches over 5 days, I finally rid myself of the physical dependency.
It has now been almost three months.  Last week, after what I believe was a mild sinus infection, I developed a productive cough.  At first, it was more prevalent immediately after arising.  But now, it is more obvious later in the day.  The sputum remains brownish, without evidence of blood or infection.
Was the post-nasal drip associated with the sinus infection the trigger of this cough?
And, if so, how long should I tolerate it's existence before seeking advice from my physician.  (He is not aware that I have ceased smoking.)
N.B.  Due to a nagging L5-S1 injury, I have become more sedentary and can not physically exert myself as much as I would like.

Answer
Dear Phillip,

Congratulations on quitting.

You can imagine that your lung have a lot of healing to do.  If not better in the next week or two, I would see your doctor. Talk to your doctor about ideas to get more physical activity, as that will help.

I hope this helps,

Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com