FACT CHECK: No, Lung Washing Cannot Reverse Permanent Damage

A post made on X claims lung washing restores lungs to their original state.

when you’re an organ donor but also a heavy smoker they can wash your lungs back to the state they were before you started smoking so they can be donated to someone else https://t.co/n9oqPGK2Kq

— lena (@lhltheloml) April 1, 2025

Verdict: Misleading

While lung washing has the ability to clear large amounts of PAP deposits, it cannot restore lungs to their original state.

Fact Check:

A post made on X claims lung washing restores lungs to their original state. The caption reads, “when you’re an organ donor but also a heavy smoker they can wash your lungs back to the state they were before you started smoking so they can be donated to someone else.”

The claim is misleading. Lung washing, also referred to as lung lavage, clears a large portion of PAP deposits to improve breathing. There is no evidence, however, to show lung washing perfectly restores lungs. (RELATED: No, Harvard Study Did Not Confirm Fluoride Lowers Children’s IQ)

Even though the removal of PAP deposits is known to improve breathing, Scientists have confirmed lung washing cannot yet undo permanent damage. Check Your Fact has reached out to the NIH for comment.