Nicotine Withdrawal Backup
Find Ways to Handle Nicotine Withdrawal
During the first few weeks after you quit, you may feel uncomfortable and crave a cigarette. These unpleasant symptoms of quitting smoking are known as withdrawal. Withdrawal is common among those who quit, whether they are doing it cold turkey or with the help of medications, counseling, or other tools.
During withdrawals, your body is getting used to not having nicotine from cigarettes or other tobacco products. For most people, the worst symptoms of withdrawal last a few days to a few weeks.
Why it Happens: Nicotine suppresses appetite, so it’s normal to feel hungrier when you quit.
Food begins to smell and taste better when you’re not using nicotine, and what may feel like hunger pains may actually be the stomach getting used to your saliva not having damaging nicotine in it.
Tip: Plan a healthy, balanced diet to help avoid weight gain. Keep healthy snacks around. Drink plenty of water.
Why it Happens: Perspiration (sweating) is your body’s way of getting rid of toxic chemicals.
Tip: Drink lots of water to replace any fluids you might be losing.
Why it Happens: Nicotine is a stimulant. Getting off tobacco may make you tired.
Tip: Regular exercise can help you get a better sleep routine. Also, try planning for extra sleep when you first quit.
Why it Happens: While you’re quitting, you may be bothered or annoyed by the smallest of things.
Tip: Quitting is hard. Reward yourself. It will help make the whole experience more positive.
Why it Happens: Nicotine stimulates your metabolism, which is partly the way your body breaks down food. After quitting, it may take more effort for you to go to the bathroom.
Tip: Drink lots of water. Eat high fiber foods, like whole grains, bran, vegetables, and certain fruits.
Why it Happens: Smoking can make it harder for your blood to circulate. When you stop smoking, your blood flow will improve.
Tip: Exercise can help your body get to a more normal blood flow.
Why it Happens: After quitting, you may be tired, yet sometimes unable to fall asleep.
Tip: Practice deep-breathing exercises and relaxing before going to bed. Herbal teas, a warm bath or a glass of warm milk before bed may also help. If serious insomnia persists, talk to your doctor.
You may be tempted to smoke or use or use other tobacco products to relieve these feelings. Just remember that they are temporary, no matter how powerful they feel at the time.
One of the best ways to deal with nicotine withdrawal is to try nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). NRT can reduce withdrawal symptoms, and double your chances of quitting smoking or other tobacco products for good. NRT comes in several different forms, including gum, patch, nasal spray, inhaler, and lozenge. Many are available without a prescription.
A lot of research has been done on NRT. It has been shown to be safe and effective for almost all tobacco users who want to quit. But teens, pregnant women, and people with severe medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using NRT.
If you plan to use NRT, remember to have it available on your quit day. Read the instructions on the NRT package and follow them carefully. NRT will give you the most benefit if you use it as recommended.
Fact:
The worst withdrawal symptoms only last a few days to a couple of weeks. Stay strong!
If withdrawal symptoms continue, talk to your doctor or other medical professional right away.