I am 80 years old. I have smoked since I was 16 until I was approximately 32. Then I staped. I think I smoked a pack a day, perhaps a little less. About three to four years ago, I started to notice small breathlessness. I went to see doctors. They did a series of tests including checks with a chest X-ray and a series of breath tests where you blow into a machine, which analyzes different characteristics of your lungs. To cut a long story short, I have a mild case of emphysema. The doctors explained to me they can see from X-rays where I smoked simply by examining my X-rays. They explained to me the lungs do not heal from damage from smoking. Once you have damaged your lungs, you are finished. I did relate this information to this doctor, where during my youth
It depends on the level of damage they suffered before they left. Some people heal to a degree.
Two friends of mine have smoked. One is now 69 years old. She smoked filter tips for over 40 years. Her condition is so bad with emphysema that she won't get better, even though she hasn't smoked in probably 15 years. She can barely get out of her apartment and requires an oxygen tank.
Then there is another friend, possibly 45 years old at this moment. Smoking took all of his teeth. She is a musician, but her voice is badly damaged. Thankfully, she is a great singer. She stopped smoking very recently because, in her words, “I couldn't breathe.” She will find it easier to breathe, but she won't regain her good voice or become a marathon runner.
Those without irreversible damage to their lungs will notice substantial improvements within nine months. Abstinence for just one day can lower risks associated with smoking.
However, the longer you put it off, the higher your chances of developing cancer even after you stop.
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