Stop Smoking Withdrawal Symptoms

Even at the hardest times I never doubted the whole thing was going to be a totally positive experience.
~Ex-Smoker~

Many smokers have exaggerated notions of the agony of going without cigarettes and want to know how long they will be affected by withdrawal symptoms. Since physiology varies widely among individuals, the answer has a lot to do with your attitude about the process.
On average, it takes two to three days for the nicotine level in your body to drop significantly below your maintenance level. During that time you will have frequent urges, which are the most significant withdrawal symptoms.
If you drink lots of water, breathe deeply, and keep moving, you will be able to go long periods of time without being aware of your changed situation. As you notice the time between urges increasing, you may become aware of some of the physical symptoms of recovery described below.
You may feel all, some, or none of these symptoms within the first week. Remember that your body is healing and that over time, the symptoms will abate. Don’t worry about them unless they persist for a long time.

Cravings for a Cigarette

Cravings for a cigarette are frequent and intense within the first two to three days after stopping. The cravings become less frequent over the next four or five days, but they may increase again and persist for many weeks. Most former smokers – even those who have been free for many years – still report an occasional urge for a cigarette. (Stop Smoking Craving)
Deep breathing and immediate activity will help distract you from your craving. The worst of the cravings usually end within a couple of weeks after breaking free. You know you’re in good shape when you no longer think of cigarettes all the time.

Coughing

Your lungs and upper respiratory system are now getting rid of the built-up toxins that restricted your breathing while you were smoking. Your body is cleaning house, so don’t panic if you cough or spit up blackish mucus. Your cough should last only a few days; cough drops or syrups may help relieve the symptoms.

Sleeplessness

Smokers lack energy, and their sleep tends to be restless because of coughing and difficult breathing. Now that you are no longer smoking, you are healthier and your body has more energy.
You should need fewer hours of sleep, and the sleep you get should be more restful. If you want to sleep longer, use more of your new energy during the day by exercising harder and going to bed later, when you tend to be more tired.

Mouth Sores

A small number of people who stop smoking are affected by chemical changes in their mouths and may suffer minor problems including blisters, sores, and inflammation. For years, your mouth has had to withstand the endless attacks of hot smoke, so it can handle the sores. They’ll go away in a few days.

Occasional Dizziness

Because your body is taking in more oxygen through the lungs than you have been used to, you may feel dizzy. These dizzy spells will last only a few seconds. This symptom may recur for four or five days, until your body adjusts to increased oxygen intake.

Constipation

Internal movement may decrease for a brief period when a smoker lowers or stops his cigarette use. This symptom rarely lasts longer than three to four days.

Tightness in the Chest

Some newly free smokers complain of chest pain after stopping. This happens because your body is getting more fresh air than usual. The extra air fills the lungs and makes them feel tighter. This symptom should last for only a day or two after stopping. See your doctor if it persists.

Irritability

It is the nicotine that causes your cigarette addiction. When the nicotine level declines, your body begins to sense the loss. This can cause tension and be symptomatic of the grief process. Deep breathing and exercise will help relieve irritability.

Lack of Concentration

Some former smokers notice lapses in concentration soon after they break free. This symptom may be the combined result of other withdrawal symptoms – irritability, sleeplessness, and the change in your routine. Give it time. Your focus will be clearer within a few days, and you will develop new ways of coping without reaching for a cigarette.

Physical Symptoms Not Covered

Remember, not all symptoms that surface after you stop are due to smoking withdrawal. It has already been suggested that you see your dentist soon after stopping smoking. In some cases, periodontal disease may become more evident. Individuals often report having a severe head cold soon after smoking cessation.

Feeling Sleepy

Some smokers report that they get a boost of energy from smoking. The body needs time to adjust to not having a cigarette every half hour or so. If you feel sleepy, don’t hesitate to take a nap during the first few days you are free of smoking.