When You Quit Smoking – Nicotine Withdrawal SymptomsWhen you quit smoking you will almost inevitably experience some withdrawal symptoms. The nicotine in cigarettes is a drug and you will have become addicted to it. Actually, nicotine is thought to be one of the most addictive substances of all - which is how cigarette companies get to make so much money. But now for the good of your health, your pocket and your body odour, you've decided to quit smoking. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms are worth putting up with for a little while. But a big part of maintaining your willpower and not going back to smoking when faced with these nicotine withdrawal symptoms is to be prepared for them: to know what to expect.
All of these symptoms can be controlled, but it is best for you to be prepared. Knowing what nicotine withdrawal symptoms to expect allows you to plan for them. When you quit smoking you can expect some or all of the following symptoms as your body rids itself of nicotine: Insomnia You can help yourself with this by using some deep breathing and relaxation techniques Anxiety, irritability and depression Relaxation, yoga and hypnotherapy can all help reduce your symptoms of anxiety associated with nicotine withdrawal. Poor concentration This can be quite a frightening and disturbance symptom of nicotine withdrawal. It's important to remind yourself this will pass and it's a common symptom of nicotine withdrawal. In the meantime, use a few simple strategies like making lists and taking frequent rest breaks to cope with your everyday life whilst you find it difficult to concentrate. Cravings to smoke a cigarette This symptom is definitely to be expected when you quit smoking. It is both a physical craving for the nicotine and a craving for the action of smoking. For the physical cravings, try nicotine gum or patches which gradually reduce your levels of nicotine so your cravings are reduced. Otherwise, find something else less harmful than smoking to do with your hands and mouth. An increase in appetite This is a natural consequence and one that ex-smokers, particularly women, find distressing; however, you should tell yourself that it is because the nicotine was actually artificially depressing your appetite; you are now experience more normal hunger pangs. Jus watch your food and calorie intake and you can take control and not put on too much weight. Remember - when you quit smoking, you're in charge. It's important to remind yourself that you are not going mad, and these symptoms have a real, physical cause as your body rids itself of nicotine. These symptoms will pass within a month or less - all of them. When you quit smoking, you are making a healthy choice to improve the rest of your life - a few weeks of these uncomfortable and inconvenient symptoms are worth it when you quit smoking. |