Coughing after quitting smoking

It can be infuriating to find yourself still coughing after quitting cigarettes. Worse than that, developing a smokers cough after quitting, just seems wrong. However, experiencing a cough after quitting is actually a good sign that your lungs are beginning to recover and clear out toxins.

Causes of Coughing After Quitting Smoking

Coughing after quitting smoking can occur as a result of the body’s natural response to heal and cleanse the respiratory system from years of tobacco smoke exposure.

When a person quits smoking, the cilia (tiny hair like structures in the airways) begin to recover and regain their function. These tiny hair like structures play a crucial role in sweeping mucus and debris out of the lungs, which is essential for maintaining respiratory health. As this process accelerates, it can lead to increased coughing as the lungs work to expel accumulated tar, toxins, and mucus.

As soon as you quit, the body begins the healing process, and cilia begin to regain their function. Additionally, quitting smoking reduces the irritation and inflammation caused by tobacco smoke, which can initially trigger coughing as the airways adjust to the absence of these irritants.

While this post-cessation cough is common and typically temporary, it serves as a positive sign of the body’s recovery and should improve over time with continued abstinence from smoking, leading to a decrease in symptoms and inflammation as part of the healing process.

Relief for Coughing After Quitting Smoking

Relief for coughing after quitting smoking can be achieved through several supportive measures.

Staying hydrated is crucial as it helps thin mucus and facilitates its removal from the airways. Using a humidifier or taking steam inhalation can also moisturise and soothe irritated air passages.

Over-the-counter cough suppressants can be helpful for controlling persistent coughing fits, while mucolytic medications can aid in breaking down and clearing mucus.

Engaging in regular physical activity can promote lung health and expedite the recovery process. One significant benefit of regular exercise and a healthy diet is the improvement of respiratory health, as these actions support lung tissue repair and enhance overall respiratory function. 

Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and antioxidants that support respiratory function. If the cough persists or worsens, it’s important to seek medical advice to ensure you receive appropriate treatment.

Fast facts:

• • What is a quit smoking cough? A cough that starts or is exacerbated as a result of quitting smoking

• • When do you start coughing after quitting smoking? Some people don’t develop a post-quit cough – others notice it within a day or so of quitting.

• • What is the cause of coughing after stopping smoking? It’s the body’s natural response to heal and cleanse the respiratory system from years of tobacco smoke exposure and the airways adjustment to the absence of irritants. A smoker’s cough is common among those who have smoked for years.

• • How long do you cough up mucus after quitting smoking? It can continue for days or a few weeks. Always seek advice from a doctor if it persists or worsens beyond a few weeks so that appropriate treatment can be administered.
  • Does smoking cigarettes cause a cough? Yes, smoking cigarettes damages the cilia in your airways, leading to a smoker’s cough.
  • What other symptoms might you experience? Many people experience symptoms like sore throat, mouth ulcers, or increased coughing after quitting.

If you do get a cough after quitting smoking, the important thing is not to panic and not to consider it a negative thing. A smoker may notice these symptoms as part of the recovery process. It is far better that your body expels the gunk from your lungs and airways than for it to remain. It should be an enjoyable, purging process.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Coughing

While coughing after quitting smoking is a common part of the recovery process, it’s important to know when your symptoms might signal something more serious.

Most people experience some degree of coughing as their lungs begin to heal and clear out the toxins left behind by years of tobacco smoke. However, certain symptoms should never be ignored, as they could indicate a more serious health issue.

If you notice any of the following symptoms after you quit smoking, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional right away:

• Chest pain or tightness: Experiencing chest pain or a feeling of tightness could be a warning sign of a heart attack, pneumonia, or other serious conditions. Don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention if you feel any discomfort in your chest.
• Shortness of breath: If you find yourself struggling to breathe or feeling unusually winded, even when you’re at rest, it’s important to get checked by a doctor. Difficulty breathing can be a sign of lung or heart problems that need prompt evaluation.
• Coughing up blood: Noticing blood or rust-colored mucus when you cough is always a red flag. This symptom could be linked to infections, lung cancer, or other serious issues, so seek medical help immediately.
• Fever: A high fever (over 102°F or 39°C) may indicate an infection such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which can develop after quitting smoking as your immune system adjusts.
• Wheezing: If you hear a whistling or wheezing sound when you breathe, it could be a sign of asthma, COPD, or another respiratory condition that requires medical attention.
• Mouth ulcers: Persistent mouth ulcers or sores can sometimes signal a viral or bacterial infection, especially during the early days of nicotine withdrawal.
• Severe headache or confusion: If you experience a sudden, severe headache or confusion, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a stroke or meningitis.

Other reasons to reach out to your healthcare provider include:

• Increased coughing: If your cough is getting worse or lasting longer than a few weeks, it’s important to get it checked out.
• Difficulty breathing: Any ongoing trouble with breathing or feeling like you’re not getting enough air should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Coughing up thick, yellow, or green phlegm: This could be a sign of an infection that needs treatment.

Remember, quitting smoking is a huge step toward better health, and it’s normal to experience some withdrawal symptoms, including increased coughing, cravings, and even weight gain, especially in the first few weeks. Staying hydrated, practicing deep breathing, and avoiding triggers can help you manage these symptoms and support your lungs as they regain normal function.

As you continue your smoking cessation journey, you’ll notice the health benefits start to add up: improved lung function, lower blood pressure, and a significantly decreased risk of heart disease and lung cancer.

Your carbon monoxide levels will drop, your body will begin to heal, and your risk of chronic cough and other smoking-related illnesses will be greatly reduced.

If you ever feel unsure about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Prioritising your health during this recovery process will help you stay smoke free and enjoy all the benefits of quitting smoking.

Take it one day at a time, celebrate your progress, and remember: every day without cigarette smoke is a victory for your lungs and your overall well-being. You’ve got this!

Further reading:

Would you like to know more about how nicotine withdraws from your body? Why not read about the effects of quitting smoking?