Recently, the news said tat whooping cough has been going around..They say must get vaccinated but need meh? I tot it’s just a cough? Pls advice.
Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but it helps to understand where you are right now. I usually explain it using the 6 Stages of Change Model: Precontemplation – Not thinking about quitting yet. Contemplation – Starting to think about quitting. Preparation – Actively planning to quit. Action – Actively wRead more
Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but it helps to understand where you are right now. I usually explain it using the 6 Stages of Change Model:
- Precontemplation – Not thinking about quitting yet.
- Contemplation – Starting to think about quitting.
- Preparation – Actively planning to quit.
- Action – Actively working to quit
- Maintenance – Staying smoke-free.
- Relapse – A slip-up, but a chance to learn and try again.
From what you’ve shared, it sounds like you’re probably at stage 2 (contemplation) or maybe even stage 3 (preparation), which is fantastic. Thinking about quitting or getting ready to take action is such an important step, and you should be proud of that.
Let me explain how nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) works in a simple way. When you smoke, you’re not just getting nicotine – you’re also inhaling other harmful chemicals, like tar and carbon monoxide, which do most of the damage to your health. With NRT, you still get a small, controlled amount of nicotine, but without all those harmful toxins. It’s a safer way to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings while you work on breaking the habit.
What’s great about NRT is that it’s very flexible, and we can control the dose. For example, if you use a patch, you’ll start with a higher dose to manage the cravings and then gradually reduce it over time. The same goes for gum, lozenges, or inhalers – you use them when you need them and slowly cut back as your cravings get better. This gradual approach makes quitting much more manageable, especially compared to going cold turkey.
There are also a few types of NRT:
- Patches give you a steady dose of nicotine throughout the day.
- Gum or lozenges are great for sudden cravings when they hit.
- Inhalers are very popular because they replace not just the nicotine but also the hand-to-mouth habit that many smokers struggle to let go of.
- Sprays (mouth or nasal) provide quick relief for intense cravings.
From my experience with other patients, a lot of them find the inhaler most helpful because it mimics the act of smoking, which can be one of the hardest parts to give up.
I know some patients also worry if an inhaler is like vaping. It’s actually very different. With NRT inhalers, you’re only getting a controlled dose of nicotine – there’s no harmful chemicals, no burning, and no smoke. It’s purely a tool to help you quit, not something designed to replace one addiction with another.
In Malaysia, you can get NRT products like patches, gum, and inhalers at pharmacies such as Guardian, Watsons, or Caring Pharmacy. Just ask the pharmacist, and they’ll guide you on how to use them properly. You can also visit a smoking cessation clinic or any general clinics if you’d like more support.
The fact that you’re considering quitting is already a huge step. With the right tools and support, you can definitely do this.
Dr Say.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Benefits of Nicotine Replacement Therapy
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Tobacco Facts and Smoking Cessation
- Ministry of Health Malaysia – Resources for Smoking Cessation Clinics and Quitline (KKM MyHealth)
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is indeed more than just a typical cough. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While it may initially present with symptoms similar to a common cold, such as a runny nose, mild cough, and fever, it can progress to sRead more
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is indeed more than just a typical cough. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While it may initially present with symptoms similar to a common cold, such as a runny nose, mild cough, and fever, it can progress to severe coughing fits. These fits can be debilitating and lead to complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Importance of Vaccination
1. Severity and Complications: Whooping cough can lead to serious complications, particularly in infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated. Complications can include pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and in severe cases, death. In adults, while the disease might be less severe, it can still cause significant discomfort and lead to complications like rib fractures from severe coughing.
2. Transmission: The disease spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Vaccination reduces the risk of contracting and spreading the disease, thereby protecting not only the individual but also the community, particularly those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.
3. Herd Immunity: Achieving high vaccination coverage in the community is crucial for herd immunity. This means that even those who are not vaccinated (such as newborns or individuals with contraindications) are indirectly protected because the spread of the disease is minimized.
4. Vaccine Effectiveness: The pertussis vaccine is effective in preventing the disease. While immunity can wane over time, booster vaccinations are recommended to maintain protection, especially for those in close contact with infants or those in healthcare settings.
Recommendations
– Children: The DTaP vaccine is recommended for children, with a series of five shots given at specific intervals from 2 months to 6 years of age.
– Adolescents and Adults: A booster shot, Tdap, is recommended for adolescents around 11-12 years of age and for adults who have not previously received it. Pregnant women are advised to get the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect the newborn from pertussis.
– High-Risk Groups: Individuals who are in close contact with infants, healthcare workers, and those with chronic health conditions should ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations.
Conclusion
While whooping cough might seem like just a severe cough, its potential complications and ease of transmission make vaccination a critical preventive measure. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss vaccination status and ensure that you and your family are protected against pertussis, especially in light of recent outbreaks.
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