Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) & Smoking FAQs
COPD is not curable, but you will improve your quality of life and stop your COPD from getting any worse by quitting. And quitting cuts your chances of developing COPD by half. You can quit. EX can help.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhat if I have COPD and I live with other smokers? |
Because COPD is caused by the inhalation of harmful particles, especially those found in tobacco smoke, it is very important that people with COPD who are quitting not be exposed to other people’s smoke. If you live with another smoker, read Dr. Hays’ blog post about quitting with other smokers in your home.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhat if I smoked for years and now have COPD – is it too late for me to quit? |
It is never too late to quit and get the benefits to slow down COPD damage from smoking. Read more at verywellhealth.com.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhy should I consider using medications to help me quit? |
Medications, such as nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges, can make your quitting experience much more comfortable. If you are a heavy smoker, you may need to use higher doses of medications. As with any new medication, talk with your health care provider to make sure you have the right kind of medication, and the right dose for your unique situation. Learn more about different quitting medications.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerHow can I find out what other people with COPD are doing to quit? |
Get support from smokers and ex-smokers like you in our Community. The EX Community is a place where thousands of real tobacco users come every day to quit and support others in their quit. Not sure you want to interact with anyone else? No worries – it’s ok to just read what other people are posting, in fact, we encourage it!
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhat if I want to use e-cigarettes to help me quit smoking cigarettes? |
Thinking about using e-cigarettes to quit smoking? The link between smoking and COPD is crystal clear. If you decide e-cigarettes are the best way for you to quit, that’s great. The EX Program is here for you no matter what path you take to your tobacco-free life.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhat if I am vaping and can’t stop? |
Already quit smoking using e-cigarettes and having trouble kicking your new e-cig habit? We’ve got your back. COPD is chronic condition that primarily attacks the lungs. Not inhaling chemicals of any kind is the best way to protect lung health. There are resources here on EX that can help you quit.
| Show Answer / Hide AnswerWhere can I go if I’m interested in more information about lung health? |
Mayo Clinic Connect is an online community that connects people. On their Lung Health page, you can meet people living with lung health condition or caring for someone with lung health concerns. It is a great place to go for more advice on breathing exercises, answers to questions about symptoms, and treatment options. Read more at mayoclinic.org.