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When you quit smoking, your body may have a difficult time adjusting to the absence of thousands of chemicals found in cigarette smoke. Each individual reacts to these recovery or “withdrawal” symptoms in a different way. Commonly reported withdrawal symptoms and possible ways to limit their severity are listed below.
Craving for Cigarettes
Cravings will occur less frequently over time, be of shorter duration, and will not rival the intensity of cravings experienced after first quitting smoking.
Irritability
If possible, try to avoid stressful events, situations, or other problems that might only make matters worse.
Lack of Concentration
Try to avoid complicated or time-consuming tasks for a few days after quitting.
Depression
Focus on the benefits of not smoking. Quitting smoking is actually gaining back your health and energy, rather than giving up something important.
Cough
Cough drops may be helpful in easing the symptoms.
Sleeplessness
Take deep breaths and do muscle relaxation exercises before going to bed.
Constipation
Drink a lot of water and eat a high fiber diet to help overcome this problem.
Dizziness
Sit and relax for a minute or two until it passes.
Hunger
Try to find non-food substitutes, eat low-calorie foods, or brush your teeth frequently to satisfy the need to have something in your mouth.
Bad Taste in the Mouth
Mouthwash, salt water rinses, or extra vitamin C may help.
Tiredness
Take short naps and avoid strenuous work if and when possible.
Headache
Relaxation or over-the-counter remedies may be helpful.
Used with permission from the University of Minnesota, Department of Epidemiology
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