How quickly does lung function recover after quitting smoking?

Generally, if the smoking history is short and the individual's physical condition is good, lung function usually recovers relatively quickly after quitting smoking. However, if there is a long history of smoking, the recovery of lung function may be relatively slower.

For individuals who have smoked for a short time and smoked relatively few cigarettes daily, lung function can significantly improve within weeks to months after quitting. This is because the cilia in the lungs begin to regrow; these cilia help clear mucus and harmful substances from the lungs. Younger individuals have a stronger capacity for physical recovery, so their lung function may improve more quickly after quitting compared to older individuals. If a smoker does not have respiratory diseases, the lungs may return to normal function more rapidly after quitting smoking.

Long-term smoking can cause irreversible damage to the lungs, such as permanent destruction of the alveolar walls. In such cases, even after quitting smoking, lung function may not fully recover, and the recovery process may be relatively slower. As people age, the body's ability to recover gradually declines. Therefore, older smokers may not experience as rapid lung function recovery after quitting as younger individuals. If a person already suffers from severe lung disease before quitting smoking, the recovery of lung function after quitting may be more difficult, or even impossible.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after quitting smoking, including regular exercise and healthy eating habits, can help promote the recovery of lung function.