It's not fair, is it? You make a huge effort to quit smoking, and then within days, on top of all the cravings, the bad temper, the headaches and sore throat, you develop a hacking cough. It's not surprising that we end up taking up smoking again after a week or so is it? I mean, what's the point in trying to quit smoking if this is what we can look forward to?

Well the good news is that your cough is actually a sign that your lungs are starting to repair themselves, so cheer up. What is actually happening is that the tiny hairlike structures called cilia within your lungs are beginning to gain function again. What they do is clean the lungs of particles and dust which gather naturally when you breath. Smoking, and tobacco in particular, paralyse the cilia, so allowing tar and toxins to build up in the lung tissue unchecked. It also explains why smokers are able to continue smoking even with a heavy cold.

While this sounds like a good thing, clearly long term it's very bad for the lungs and body. As these deposits gather and remain in place, they effect the prime function of the lungs which is to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream replenishing the vital organs. During the healing process the coughing should begin to lessen and after a month or so the Cilia should be fully functional again.

You should begin to feel the benefits of quitting smoking within 4 to 6 months and also the increase in the flow of oxygen around the body will start to effect your general health. Your skin will regain its glow, your hair will find a new shine, your breathing will become clearer, and you'll generally have a boost in your energy levels.