HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Does Hacking Cough In A Smoker Indicate?

Im a 1-2 pack a day smoker. I have developed a hacking morning cough that turns to a choking cough if I have a cigarette. After a coughing fit I have trouble catching my breath and once actual had the dry heaves following a coughing fit. I know stop smoking....easier said than done...what does this sound like? COPD? EMPHESEMA? CANCER
Thu, 21 Jul 2016
Report Abuse
Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Since you are active smoker, these symptoms are more suggestive of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Early stage of lung cancer will also cause similar symptoms.
So better to consult pulmonologist and get done
1. Clinical examination of respiratory system
2. Chest x ray and CT scan of thorax (if required) for lung cancer.
3. PFT (pulmonary function test).
PFT will not only diagnose COPD but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only.
You will mostly improve with inhaled bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).
In any case, smoking cessation should be done as soon as possible.
So quit smoking and consult pulmonologist. First diagnose and then start appropriate treatment.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Copd


Loading Online Doctors....
What Does Hacking Cough In A Smoker Indicate?

Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic. I can understand your concern. Since you are active smoker, these symptoms are more suggestive of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Early stage of lung cancer will also cause similar symptoms. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done 1. Clinical examination of respiratory system 2. Chest x ray and CT scan of thorax (if required) for lung cancer. 3. PFT (pulmonary function test). PFT will not only diagnose COPD but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only. You will mostly improve with inhaled bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). In any case, smoking cessation should be done as soon as possible. So quit smoking and consult pulmonologist. First diagnose and then start appropriate treatment. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.