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Almost 15 weeks smoke free, started having chest congestion again, is this normal? Cancel The title field is required!

1. kash

   

   6 posts
   Registered:
   28 May 2020
   02 Jul 2020

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   Hi everyone,
   
   I have been smoke free for almost 15 weeks now. In the beginning it was tough and difficult with the withdrawal symptoms. After about 11 weeks symptoms went away and I was feeling great. In the past week I have started feeling chest congestion again and like there is some phlegm sitting at the back of my throat. 
   
   I don’t have as much of a sore throat like previous and it is more of a mild inconvenience. I have not had a smoke or any desire to have one either. I wasn’t a heavy pack a day smoker, I smoked for 15 years and a pack every 6 days or so. 
   
   I am just curious is it normal to have these symptoms still? Every morning I spit up some brown phlegm and the rest of the day it is clear in colour. Is it wise for me to consult with a doctor? Has anyone else experienced this? 
   
   I appreciate any and all feedback!
   
   
2. brieffree

   

   1477 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   02 Jul 2020

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   Hi kash
   
   It sound like your chest is start to clear out, 15 weeks smoke free is great Job!
   Is pretty normal all nicotine is coming out and when it does it, you brief better and better.
   Don't forget that we stop inhaling smoke for too long, Now is time to brief pure Air!
   So all chemicals from smokes are clearing out of your Lungs, the first 3 months,
   You need to drink plenty water helps to clear out faster!
   I hope it helps you!
   However, if it continuo for long you might want to see your Doctor just to check up!
   I went to the doctor after 1 year smoke free and I told him How I was feeling and He said, well just continuo like this....
   
   Everyday is a new day, never give up!
   Feel free to post how you feel!
3. kash

   

   6 posts
   Registered:
   28 May 2020
   02 Jul 2020

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   Hi Brieffree,
   
   I drink about 3litres of water a day. I have cut out alcohol and drink green tea in the morning and at night. 
   
   I still find myself very tired some days and have no energy and feel dazed from time to time. With the stress COVID has also issued being extra safe and cautious is more stressing. 
   
   I have managed to increase my physical activity and work out regularly now but I can’t shake these symptoms. 
   
   is there anything I can take to help? Or is it just a daily challenge I have to endure?
4. treepeo1

   

   255 posts
   Registered:
   06 Feb 2020
   02 Jul 2020

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   Hi kash,
   
   It can take a long time for our lungs to clear out.  I quit 3.5 years ago and ever since, I get a lot of phlegm coming out every day.  But it doesn't bother me.  Better out than in.  Also, the more liquid you drink, the easier it is to get rid of this phlegm.  I think it is all part of the healing process.
   
   The chest congestion you are experiencing may not be solely due to you quitting.  It might  be a result of the hot and humid weather.  Or you may have developed allergies.  Who knows?  It sounds like you are concerned, so why not check in with your doctor?  It is probably a good idea in any event, because quitting smoking is a tremendous change and your doctor will want to keep track of the beneficial changes to your health as a result of you quitting.
   
   In the meantime, I wouldn't worry too much.  Think about it.  You quit almost 4 months ago.  That can only be good for your health.
   
   Kash, you should be really proud of yourself.  Quitting isn't easy, but you stuck with it and you did it.  I think that is fantastic!  Do something nice for yourself.  You deserve it!
5. emily, quit coach

   

   247 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   03 Jul 2020

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   Hi Kash,
   
   Huge congratulations on 15 weeks of being smoke free! That's amazing. 
   
   When it comes to withdrawals it can look very different for each person on what the experience and how long it lasts. Having congestion and coughing up phlegm are pretty common parts of quitting for some people, but if it is concerning you, it never hurts to check in with your doctor.
   
   Emily
   
   
6. brieffree

   

   1477 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   05 Jul 2020

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   Hi Kash
   
   Craves are normal. Part of the quit process!
   The question here is How do we prepare with the moment comes?
   Possibility's:
   - Do something instead of thinking on it!, go for short walk, do something around the house to keep your mind busy and the energy too, whatever you do must be healthy and regarding to you!
   - Drink water
   --Read a book
   -do some painting
   -Speak to someone you know about how you feel in that moment, you will find a lot help.
   - walk stairs instead take the elevator, that will improve your briefing and force your heart a bit, so the lungs will clear up faster.
   - As much odyl acti
   
7. tonymishere

   

   1 posts
   Registered:
   23 Jul 2020
   23 Jul 2020 in reply to kash

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   I am also having similar issue.I am on day 95, I quit after 18 years of smoking.Are you still having problem? How are you dealing with it? Please share.
8. brieffree

   

   1477 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   23 Jul 2020

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   Hi Tonymishere
   
   Congrats in 95 days smoke free!
   
   Generally after a wile of been free the problem start with different symptoms, your body stated to heal it self, so your mind miss the mind thought.....is all signs of healing!
   Is normal part of the quit!
   
   The key is to be ready for those moments when they come! in 95 days I am sure you know what works for you!
   is all depending how much you use to smoke.
   The level of nicotine in your body!
   Think in positive, distract your self, say NO!.
   
   
   All the best 
   
   One day at the time, never give up!