Smoking
About Smoking
A physical and psychological addictive disorder. Smoking causes cancer, breathing problems, heart attacks, and stroke. Secondhand smoke causes asthma and breathing problems. Cigarettes contain dangerous chemicals including: tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide.Symptoms
Chronic cough, bad breath, stained fingers, shortness of breath.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify damage done by the smoking may be performed.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Troponin, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy is aimed at helping the patient quit smoking. Group and family support can help. Smoking-cessation drugs and many nicotine-replacement therapies can be effective for some patients. The medications include: varenicline (Chantix), nicotine gum, nicotine patches and/or nicotine nasal sprays.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Pulmonology · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Smoking.