Fall 2004
About 50% of smokers develop chronic bronchitis, a nagging, wet cough that lasts at least three months and returns at least two years in a row. If you smoke, quitting is the best way to prevent and treat chronic bronchitis.
Although it’s best to quit smoking as early as possible, stopping later in life—even at age 65—can spare your lungs and your life.
Consider the following strategies:
- Set a quit date.
- Consider over-the-counter nicotine gum and patches. Nicotine spray and inhalers are available with a prescription.
- Ask your doctor, friends, and family for support. Consider a quit-smoking program.
- Find activities that make it tough to puff, such as walking. Walking 20 minutes twice daily keeps you busy and can help you breathe better.
St. John’s Pulmonary Rehab program offers Freedom from Smoking classes to help you quit smoking and remain smoke-free. For class schedules, call 417-625-2096. |
