Withdrawal Symptoms When Quitting Smoking

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Withdrawal Symptoms When Quitting Smoking

Withdrawal Symptoms when Quitting Smoking

When you stop smoking, you will start to experience symptoms of nicotine withdrawal shortly after quitting. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be very intense, causing many people to succumb to the urge to smoke. Smoking cessation can be facilitated more easily if you know what to watch for. Identifying the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal will help you overcome them more readily.

Perhaps the most irritating symptom of nicotine withdrawal is the intense desire to reach for a cigarette and your lighter. There are several measures you can take to resist these intense cravings. First, try to alter your daily routine to avoid boredom and prolonged periods of inactivity. When you are bored, you are more likely to want to smoke. Whenever you feel the desire to smoke, consider the practice of deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques. You should also strive to keep your hands busy. Knit, play checkers, do a jigsaw puzzle - keeping your hands busy for many people is a good alternative to having a cigarette in your hand. Consult with your doctor about using smoking cessation aids such as nicotine gum, nicotine patches, or a nicotine inhaler. These can be valuable tools for toughing out those strong cravings. Or better yet, try herbal stop smoking patches.

Many smokers experience an overall feeling of sluggishness during the first two weeks after stopping smoking. So prior to giving up smoking, give yourself permission to take it easy for a time after you stop smoking. Refuse any extra assignment at work, and avoid making too many personal commitments during your time off. Avoid stress, especially in the evening before retiring. Take some long hot baths, watch only light comedies, and avoid caffeine and sugar.

Even though you may be feeling especially sluggish, it is also important to get your body moving and keep active. Find an outdoor activity that you enjoy, such as biking or gardening. Doing some sort of regular physical activity will help counter the fatigue which you will inevitably feel, and will help keep you distracted from the urge to smoke.

Many smokers are accused of being irritable during the period of nicotine withdrawal. It makes perfect sense that you feel irritable or somewhat depressed during this period. Nicotine is a powerful chemical that stimulates the pleasure centers in your brain. When the nicotine suddenly stops, you can expect to feel a little unglued. A great way to counter feelings of irritability and depression is to be prepared for them. Give yourself permission to feel out of sorts. Cheer yourself up by watching comedies, reading light novels, and eating healthy foods. Make an effort to treat yourself to some fresh flowers, a good meal, relaxing music, or whatever you think will cheer you up. Use food as a reward only sparingly, since this may lead to unwanted weight gain.

It is not unusual for smokers to suffer mild or even quite severe headaches during the process of cutting out smoking. You can treat mild headaches by avoiding stress, taking over the counter Ibuprofen or Tylenol, and having an abundance of sleep. If headaches persist or are severe, you should consult your physician

Many smokers have hunger pangs and an overall increase in appetite. This is probably due to the fact that many smokers are accustomed to using cigarettes as a replacement for food. The answer is to surround yourself with healthy, whole foods that you can munch on, instead of reaching for the cigarettes. Have chopped vegetables pre-prepared and ready to eat in your refrigerator. Also have plenty of fresh fruit and do not overlook the benefits of drinking lots of water. Carry granola bars, apples, and trail mix with you in case hunger should strike while you're outside your home.

Stopping smoking can create a sense of restlessness that makes it difficult for you to concentrate on the task at hand. Instead of trying to fight through your lack of concentration, take a break. Go for a walk, eat a piece of fruit, and you can return to your work refreshed.

When you stop smoking, your mouth needs to readjust to not having a cigarette in it. Used to sucking on cigarettes, the mouth may experience dryness or soreness when you first stop smoking. Counter these unpleasant effects by keeping your mouth hydrated. Avoid especially salty or sweet foods, and drink plenty of water.

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