In recent years, the detrimental effects of smoking cigarettes on the human body have become more apparent. More smokers are giving up their smoking habit. Approximately 1 percent of the U.S. adult population gave up smoking in 2007, reports the New York Times Health Guide. Giving up smoking, however, may cause some long-term symptoms that must be taken under consideration. Anticipating the possible effects from quitting smoking can aid the patient in completely giving up the habit.
Intense Craving for Nicotine
The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal are known to manifest immediately after the patient stops smoking. Within 30 minutes of a smoker's last cigarette, he may already begin craving his next cigarette, according to the New York Times Health Guide. The craving for a cigarette may occasionally recur years after a person has successfully abandoned smoking.
Weight Gain
Some people choose to continue smoking because of a fear of putting on weight. Nicotine acts as a suppressant to a person's appetite, according to MedlinePlus. Patient's who have given up smoking may experience a decrease in their metabolism, which may add to the weight gain. A person who wishes to succeed at keeping their weight in check and simultaneously give up smoking must increase their physical activity and make healthy diet choices.
Stress
Increased stress can be a long-term symptom in patients who have given up cigarettes. Smokers and non-smokers alike deal with stress but smokers have become accustomed to nicotine as a mechanism to control or cope with stress, according to MayoClinic.com. The site also suggests that stress management may increase the success rate of a person who wants to remain smoke free. Dealing with the stress requires the use of alternative stress reducers such as talking to trusted friends and physical activity.
Depression
Depression can affect patients who have quit smoking, states the New York Times Health Guide. Feeling depressed after quitting nicotine is common. Some people are more prone to depression than others, and these people have increased risk of becoming depressed up to six months after quitting smoking. This intense gloom may be comparable to the sadness that a person feels with the death of a relative or loved one. Depression seen in patients who have recently given up smoking can be treated with supportive therapy, the use of antidepressants and by giving nicotine replacement patches. Depression that extends past the normal withdrawal period may require more specialized medical attention.
