25 year old Female who smoked for two years, i quit about a week and a half ago. I have mild asthma but smoking never bothered it. Now I have wheezing and shortness of breath but havent had a cigarette since I quit. I never had these symptoms while smoking. whats causing this?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. You are mostly having acute e of asthma. And most common cause for this is viral infection. Smokers tend to have weak lung defense. So they are prone for respiratory tract infection. You have smoked for 2 years, so your lung defense must be weak. You are also having asthma. So worsening of asthma is likely in your case. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system, chest x-ray and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). Chest x-ray is needed to rule out lung infection. PFT will tell you about severity of the disease. And treatment of asthma is based on severity only. You may need antibiotics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory, inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Don't start smoking again. Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.