Cigarette smoking not only places you at greater risk of developing health problems, the secondhand smoke that is produced also places the health of those around you in jeopardy. Quitting is one of the best decisions you can make for your own health and the health of those you love. Being physically addicted to cigarettes means that quitting won't be easy. As a result of that addiction, you may experience side effects when you stop smoking.
Cravings
When you stop smoking, you will experience physical cravings for cigarettes that may vary in intensity. Cigarette cravings are often tied to an activity. If, for example, you always smoked after meals, cravings will appear after eating. Each individual is different, but most people experience a significant reduction in their cravings one to two weeks after quitting smoking. A 2008 study published in "Psychopharmacology" notes that short bursts of intense exercise may help alleviate cigarette cravings.
Weight Gain
Individuals may gain weight after quitting smoking. The Weight-control Information Network notes that, although weight gain is a side effect, the majority of individuals gain no more than 10 pounds after they stop smoking. Cigarettes increase the speed at which your body burns calories. Once you stop smoking, your metabolic rate will stabilize, and you will burn calories more slowly. If you entertain unhealthy eating habits, this may cause you to put on weight. The risk of weight gain after you stop smoking is an opportunity to also focus on other areas of your health, such as developing better eating habits. This, in turn, may prevent weight gain.
Dizziness
Every time you take a puff on a cigarette, you are inhaling carbon monoxide. When you stop smoking, your lungs' oxygen capacity will increase due to the carbon monoxide no longer being present -- allowing your lungs to take in more oxygen than before. This may cause you to experience dizziness as your body adjusts to the additional oxygen. The discomfort is only temporary, and sitting still for a few minutes will help alleviate your dizziness.
Mood Swings
Quitting smoking changes your entire lifestyle. Many smokers closely identify with their cigarettes and feel a sense of loss once smoking is no longer a part of their lives. Villanova University reports that psychological side effects, such as mood swings, may occur after you quit. Ask your family to be patient and supportive as you cycle through the initial days and weeks without a cigarette. If you experience extreme depression as a result of not smoking, talk to your doctor, as prescription medications are available to ease your transition from smoker to non-smoker.
References
- University of South Carolina: Forever Free -- A Guide to Remaining Smoke Free
- Psychopharmacology: Acute Exercise Modulates Cigarette Cravings
- Weight-control Information Network: You Can Control Your Weight As You Quit Smoking
- University of Northern Iowa -- Wellness and Recreation Services: Recovery Symptoms
- Villanova University: Tobacco Cessation
