Quitting smoking is difficult; some describe it as the hardest habit to break. When you finally decide to get rid of nicotine from your life, you may struggle. Nicotine withdrawal is normal, however unpleasant.
Please keep reading to learn about some of the most common withdrawal symptoms and how you can make this process easier.
We would be glad to provide you with a free consultation when you give us a call. You can reclaim your life when you call us today.
Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms
Please keep reading to learn more about the common symptoms of quitting smoking. We can also provide suggestions to ease these symptoms. Do not let these withdrawal symptoms stop you from your end goal of a life free of nicotine.
#1 Cravings to Smoke
Nicotine is an addictive drug, and you can become dependent on this chemical when you expose yourself to it. Quitting is difficult partly due to the cravings you get to smoke, and you may have even built it into your daily routine.
A noon smoke break may be programmed into your hardwiring. When you are struggling with cravings, you can try to change up your routine. Avoid going to your smoke spots, and replace these routines with something distracting.
#2 Mood Changes
You may become irritable when you are going through nicotine withdrawal, which is likely due to the fact that smoking a cigarette was something you did when you were stressed out. Taking away the habit you used to self-soothe can make you grouchy.
Start to notice the stress triggers that make you want to smoke. Try to practice meditation and relaxation to improve your mood instead of relying on a cigarette.
#3 Weight Gain
Nicotine can speed up your metabolism and reduce your appetite. When you quit smoking, you can experience increased hunger and cravings for higher-calorie foods, which is entirely normal.
When you go grocery shopping, keep in mind that you will want to grab something when the cravings hit. Opt for healthier snack choices. Start adding exercise into your routine if you don’t already.
Also, beware the high-calorie drinks such as juices, cocktails, beer, sodas, etc. These drinks can add a lot of calories to your diet.
#4 Trouble Sleeping
Your body will go through some changes when you quit smoking, and nicotine withdrawal can affect your sleep. If you are having trouble going to sleep or staying asleep, it may be worth visiting your primary doctor to talk about temporarily using sleep aids.
#5 Trouble Concentrating
Nicotine is a stimulant that can help people focus. When quitting nicotine, people can experience difficulties concentrating at work or school, and brain fog can make accomplishing tasks difficult. It is important to know that this is temporary and will only last a few weeks.
#6 Restlessness
Your mind is not the only thing that may feel irritated when coming off of nicotine. Your body can get irritated and restless as well.
Ways to counter this can include exercise and reducing sugar and caffeine intake.
#7 Anxiety and Depression
If you have suffered from anxiety and depression in the past, nicotine withdrawal can aggravate your symptoms temporarily. Many people are put on a dose of antidepressants in the beginning phases of quitting nicotine.
If you are suffering, please reach out to a healthcare provider. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Call Our Office for a Free Consultation
If you are having difficulty dealing with nicotine withdrawal, we can help you navigate this process. You are on the right path. Let us help you find your way to a life free of cigarettes. Call us today to set up your free consultation to get started.
