Smoking Withdrawal Symptoms

Unfortunately, as smoking is an addiction, quitting smoking means that smokers tend to suffer withdrawal symptoms, both physical and mental. Symptoms can begin within hours of quitting, but patience and determination can help you overcome the temptation to have another cigarette. Generally, after you have quit smoking for 48 hours, withdrawal symptoms peak, but they completely disappear after 6 months of quitting, so you just have to hold on!  

The physical symptoms…

There are a number of physical symptoms as a result of withdrawal from nicotine. Some of these symptoms include:

• Nausea
• A tingling feeling in the hands and feet
• Sweating
• Stomach/muscle cramps
• Headaches/migraines

The mental symptoms…

As well as physical symptoms, smokers can suffer mental withdrawal symptoms which can include:

• Mood swings
• Inability to sleep (insomnia)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Feeling of exhaustion
• Irritability

How to handle the symptoms…

There is no point lying about the fact that quitting smoking will be hard, and that the smoking withdrawal symptoms will make quitting even harder. However, it takes just a little bit of will power and motivation to overcome the temptation of lighting another cigarette. It is advisable to take up some form of sport when you quit as a way of letting out your inner frustration if you feel overwhelmed by the withdrawal symptoms. The good news is soon you will be feeling much more alive, healthy and free having beaten your addiction.

Remember, you are not alone!

Remember, there are thousands of smokers who are trying to quit. You are not alone in your endeavour, and you all may be going through the same withdrawal symptoms. There is no shame in talking about your struggles, and sharing your thoughts could also be helpful in dealing with your withdrawal symptoms, and ultimately in your quest to quit smoking.

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