My client says they have been coughing more since they quit smoking and sometimes this includes coughing up some dark coloured phlegm, why is this happening?
A When smokers quit, the cilia* that have been paralysed by smoking start to return to normal and lung function starts to improve, leading to elimination of phlegm or mucus from the lungs. This is a positive indicator of the lung function improving. However if the client is feeling uncomfortable with the cough/has a sore throat then refer them to their GP.
