Nicotine Withdrawal

Physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal are temporary, but can be uncomfortable while they last. "Quitter's flu" is a term used to describe this phase of smoking cessation because nicotine withdrawal symptoms often mimic a cold or a mild case of the flu. Understanding what to expect when you quit smoking and following the tips provided here for coping will help you move through this stage more easily.

The following list contains commonly reported symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Most people experience some of these, but rarely all of them. Each person goes through this phase of recovery from nicotine addiction a little differently. But for most people, these discomforts are short-lived. Check with your doctor if you're concerned about a physical reaction you're having to smoking cessation, or if nicotine withdrawal symptoms persist.

Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms:

• Your mind will play tricks on you and try to dominate your thoughts. Mood swings, loneliness, lack of concentration, emptiness, agitation, stress, anger, self-pity, and just general crankiness might happen.
• Headaches or a general heaviness. This is a classic smoking withdrawal symptom, often caused by your sinuses clearing out.
• Shaking, sweating or feeling very cold.
• Coughing, hacking, runny nose, wheezing and shortness of breath. Seems strange to get these when you've quit, but your body is ridding itself of years of tar and built-up residues. In other words, at last taking the opportunity of having a good clean-out.
• Insomnia is common. Well, it is stressful to quit and break your normal patterns. As with all stress — good or bad, sleep challenges can surface.
• Sour stomach or stomach pains. Your digestion might get out of whack for a little while.
• Pains, pains, pains. Some smokers get stomach cramps, sore gums, pains in chest... pains anywhere. Your mind and body are going through a healing crisis and they are going to remind you of what they are missing.
• Tiredness and a general zapped feeling.

Coping Skills for Nicotine Withdrawal
The Five D's

• Delay until the urge passes - usually within 3 to 5 minutes.
• Distract yourself. Call a friend or go for a walk.
• Drink water to fight off cravings.
• Deep Breaths - Relax! Close your eyes and take 10 slow, deep breaths.
• Discuss your feelings with someone close to you.

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