Description
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
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify damage done by the smoking may be performed.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Pulmonology, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify damage done by the smoking may be performed.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Pulmonology, Family Practice
Treatment
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.