Tobacco smoke slows the movement of the tiny hairs (known as cilia) that line our lungs and help to remove mucus. When you stop smoking, these hairs become more active and start to clear away the mucus built up in your lungs. This can result in increased coughing for a few weeks after you first quit. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Drinking orange juice and other natural fruit juices will provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to combat congestion. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and sodas which can contribute to dehydration as much as possible.
Add three to four drop of eucalyptus oil to the water. Eucalyptus oil has both antibacterial and analgesic properties and acts as an expectorant, loosening phlegm that causes coughing. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to the steam to benefit from its soothing menthol agent. Professional facial steamers are also available at your local drugstore.
Never apply the rub directly under your nose or used on infants or children under the age of 2. The active ingredient in many chest rubs, camphor, can be toxic when ingested. [8] X Research source
Mucinex is designed for temporary relief of congestion and cold-like symptoms. It’s important to consult your doctor before you use it to treat smoking-induced congestion or coughing.
Individuals with smoker’s lung experience a combination of symptoms similar to having chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These include chronic coughing, breathlessness, and mucus in your lungs. [12] X Research source Although treatment for these two conditions may be minor, it’s important to talk to your doctor after quitting smoking about your likelihood of contracting either of these conditions. Your doctor may recommend a chest X-ray or a CT scan to exclude other possibilities. A lung function test or a blood test may also be necessary to determine other contributors to your condition.
If possible, stay indoors on high air pollution days. Stay away from wood stoves and kerosene heaters, which also can emit irritating fumes or smoke. If cold air aggravates your cough, wear a face mask before you go outside, particularly during the winter. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
A study examining the effects of quitting smoking found some physical improvements after just a week. Eleven young men who smoked about a pack a day for three and a half years were subjected to several tests while on a stationary bike before quitting, and then a week later. The study showed considerably increase in oxygen concentration in the lungs and an extension of exercise time.
Keep the vaporizer and humidifier clean. Every two to three days, clean the filter using a mixture of bleach and water (two tablespoons of bleach per one quart of water). Run the machine until dry (approximately 40 minutes) in a well-ventilated area, away from your bedroom. [17] X Research source
Dissolve ¼-1/2 teaspoons of salt in an eight ounce glass of warm (not too hot!) water. Gargle for 15-20 seconds and spit out the water. [19] X Research source
For an easy ginger tea, thinly slice a thumb-sized piece of ginger and simmer it in hot water for approximately 15 minutes. Add a bit of honey for further throat and chest relief. [22] X Research source
Adding peppermint to your diet, such as drinking peppermint tea, can help alleviate basic symptoms of chest congestion.
