Dr Dulcy gives advice on the easiest way to stop smoking

Dear Doctor

My mother says if my daughter goes to sleep with wet hair she will catch a cold or even pneumonia.  Is this possible?

Not necessarily, your daughter will just have an uncomfortable and non peaceful sleep. She will catch flu, colds and pneumonias if she is exposed to the virus responsible for the illnesses.

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Dear Doctor

I want to stop smoking but I know I can’t just go cold turkey. I smoke about seven cigarettes a day. What is the best way to reduce my cigarette intake without side effects?

You can actually go cold turkey if you decide to stop smoking. At around seven cigarettes a day, what you are dealing with is more a habit than an addiction. You can start by reducing to three cigarettes a day, then to one then to nothing, or you can just stop and decide not to pick up a cigarette again. Some people use nicotine gums to help with the cravings in the beginning, but these help more for the folk that are addicted. Just make a decision and stop. It might be difficult in the beginning but by day 21 you will be free.

About the expert:

Dr Dulcy holds a MBBCH degree from Wits University, a diploma in occupational health, a diploma in HIV management, travel medicine diploma, masters of science in sports medicine, and a masters in business administration degree from GIBS. She is a social entrepreneur with a passion for providing healthcare and wellness solutions for low and middle-income communities in South Africa. Learn more about Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe here. 

*Always consult your paediatrician, gynaecologist or health-care provider for all health matters relating to you and your children.

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