is there draino in cigarettes?
I have recently been told by a pulmonary specialis that I have COPD. I had ARDS 5.5 yrs ago and was on a vent for about 11 days in a coma. Prior to that I had smoked for 30 yrs. Not a one since. The 2nd time I saw this Dr. he was looking at the results of my CAT scan and said he saw 2 spots and said, "What do you expect when you smoke drano?" I was so devastated by the news and how awful he was, he did not even look at me, I could not ask him what on earth he meant by that. Is drano, or draino one of the 4000 chemicals they have found in cigarettes? Or is he confusing me with someone else? I have pictures to bring to him of my involvement in a government sponsored campaign to help people stop smoking - I was 15 months out of my coma & I always told people it would take a coma to get me to quit again. Now I watch what I wish for. Please shed some light on this because I do not know how to approach this doctor.
Sincerely, Monique
Monique,
I'm sorry that were put throught an uncomfortable situation.
First of all, Drano contains Sodium Hydroxide which is a strong alkali that is very caustic and "eats up" substances, which is why it is such an effective drain cleaner. Cigarette smoke, contains 4000 other toxins that are hazardous to your lungs. There is no Drano is tobacco smoke. I'm sure he was referring to the Drano in a figurative manner, rather than factual, commenting that smoking for so long had such a negative effect on your lungs. I doubt he knew what effect this comment would have on you.
At your next appointment, you should tell him that his comment shocked you and made you feel uncomfortable. You certainly know of the ill effects of tobacco and have not only stopped smoking, but you're doing much more in an effort to educate people and get them to stop. You're coming to see him as a partner in your healthcare for his expertise and help. I'm sure he will understand the situation, and hopefully you can continue your medical relationship.
I also want to commend you on your efforts to get others to quit smoking. Taking your unfortunate medical experience (coma, ARDS, Respiratory Failure) and using to help others is wonderful.
Thank you and good luck.
Martin Cane, M.D.
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