When you quit smoking, you may have some withdrawal symptoms. These are mostly the result of your body adjusting to being nicotine free. Some people only have a few mild symptoms, but others have more severe symptoms that are hard to deal with. On a positive note, they are a sign that your body is recovering from smoking.
Common recovery symptoms include:
- Cravings. These are usually over quite quickly, but can be strong. The good news is that over time, cravings will happen less often.
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, depression or anxiety. These emotions are closely tied to the physical reaction your body's going through as a result of nicotine withdrawal.
- Feelings of restlessness and/or difficulty concentrating.
- Changed sleeping patterns.
- Increase in appetite and weight gain.
Less common recovery symptoms include:
- Coughing, sneezing, deafness or sore throat.
- Mouth ulcers.
- Upset digestion and disturbed bowel.
You'll probably find you only get some of these symptoms, and that they come and go during the first week after you quit. The important thing is not to give in because of them. Most people find that they are gone within two to four weeks, though if you're a heavy smoker they may last a little longer. Some people have rises and falls in symptoms over several weeks.
If you know you may have trouble with certain withdrawal symptoms, put in place some plans to cope. For example, warn your family you might be cranky for a few weeks and ask for patience.
If you are really struggling with withdrawal symptoms, or they are not going away, call the Quitline for advice. They can help you work out what might ease them. Also, consider using a quitting product such as nicotine replacement products .
When you've been smokefree for longer, even after the withdrawal symptoms have gone, you may still get occasional cravings. These urges are usually triggered by being in situations where you used to smoke.
If you experience a mental health condition, it can be hard to distinguish between changing mental health symptoms and nicotine withdrawal. Consult your doctor before you quit, and develop a plan to monitor your moods and symptoms. The Quitline can also provide ongoing support while you quit.