most likely the two facts are unrelated with each-other.
is there a specific reason why you quit smoking?
Good for you for quitting. When you quit, i've heard the lungs go through an adjustment phase, more phelgm might be produced as the lungs heal. Even though you have a nicotine replacement, your body is detoxing from all the other chemicals in a cigarette, this slows you down. I wouldn't sweat 2 minutes, your body will bounce back soon. L
Could be hormonal change. Its normal your body will adjust to new changes. And congratulations on quitting the smoking