David Lynch Gives Health Update, Is on Supplemental Oxygen

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David Lynch Gives Health Update, Is on Supplemental Oxygen

David Lynch recently gave an update on his health status. Following a diagnosis of emphysema years ago, the legendary filmmaker has said he was forced to quit smoking cigarettes to get healthier.

Speaking to People in a recent interview, Lynch recalled that he’s always loved smoking and that it was an “important part” of his life growing up.

“I loved the smell of tobacco, the taste of tobacco. I loved lighting cigarettes. It was part of being a painter and a filmmaker for me,” said Lynch, who also said that he was sowing what he reaped for years of smoking.

Lynch now relies on supplemental oxygen to do strenous activities

Four years ago, the director was diagnosed with emphysema, a chronic lung condition that often causes shortness of breath. As a result, Lynch now has to rely on supplemental oxygen if he wants to do anything more strenuous than walking around a room.

In a PSA of sorts, Lynch — who shot down rumors that he would have to retire due to his health earlier this year — acknowledged that he and other smokers know the risks of smoking and that he just happened to get “bit” as a result.

“In the back of every smoker’s mind is the fact that it’s healthy, so you’re literally playing with fire,” Lynch said. “It can bite you. I took a chance, and I got bit.”

The famous director began smoking at the age of 8, and according to him, had actually tried to quit “many, many times,” but he always ended up going back. It wasn’t until the diagnosis of emphysema that forced him to stop for his health and his family’s sake.

“I saw the writing on the wall. and it said, ‘You’re going to die in a week if you don’t stop,’” said Lynch. “I could hardly move without gasping for air. Quitting was my only choice.”

The director keeps a positive outlook on things now, but still admits that it is a struggle to do some of the more “everyday” things that some can do, like moving around a room.

“I have a positive attitude focused on the body healing itself,” Lynch said, before noting “it’s tough living with emphysema. I can hardly walk across a room. It’s like you’re walking around with a plastic bag around your head.”

Lynch’s directorial career is legendary, being the man behind Eraserhead, The Elephant Man, Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and 1984’s Dune. Lynch is also the creator of the Twin Peaks franchise.