Can lungs be repaired after smoking?
On One Hand: Lung Function Improves When Smokers QuitOnce cilia in a smoker’s lungs are destroyed, lungs are more susceptible to infection and may become precancerous. Cilia are tiny hairlike projections in the lungs that act as filters. Within two weeks of quitting smoking, lung function begins to improve. Within 90 days, lung function improves by up to 30 percent. Because lungs are stronger, it will be easier to exercise for longer periods of time. Within 10 years, lungs will heal so much that the risk of lung cancer is halved compared to a smoker.On the Other: Damage from Emphysema is PermanentWhen smokers’ lungs become so damaged that they develop emphysema, the damage is irreversible. Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is commonly caused by smoking. It’s still possible to slow the progression of emphysema down by quitting smoking.Bottom LineCilia in the lungs regenerate, which helps clean the lungs out and reduces the chance of infection.
