Withdrawing from Nicotine

EphNotes
If you smoke regularly, you are a drug addict. nicotine is a drug, and it has been shown to be as addictive as heroin. Your body expects the nicotine it gets every day, so you may feel pretty rocky for the first week or two after quitting. But knowing what to expect and what to do about it can help you cope. Here are some common symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and tips on dealing with them.

Irritability.

You may feel grouchy, nervous or touchy. Often taking a few deep breaths and letting them out slowly can get you through an attack of the grouchies. Try not to take your feelings out on those around you; you will only feel badly about it later. Get some exercise daily. It will help you relax.

Fatigue.

Nicotine is a stimulant. When you give up that stimulant, you may feel tired, bored and listless. You may also feel fuzzy-headed as your body releases toxins as it adjusts to a lack of nicotine. Drink plenty of water to wash these toxins out of your body. Allow yourself enough rest time.

Insomnia.

You may have trouble getting to sleep. You may dream about smoking and wake up during the night. Try ending your day with a hot bath, a cup of hot milk and some relaxation exercises. Keep some good reading by your bed for those times when you can’t sleep. Remember that this will pass.

Hunger.

Cigarettes are an appetite suppressant. Giving them up will make you feel extra hungry for a while. Keep low calorie snacks on hand for those times.

Coughing.

When you stop smoking your body attempts to clear the mucous clogging your lungs. Also, your body will produce less mucous so your mouth and breathing tubes may feel dry. Drink plenty of water.

Be good to yourself.

Giving up smoking is a difficult thing. Use friends for support, pamper yourself a little, and congratulate yourself on taking another step towards a healthy lifestyle.

KeEPHealthy