Stopping smoking can reduce your chances of developing heart disease, stroke and cancer. You may experience symptoms of withdrawals when you've stopped smoking that may produce physical and psychological discomfort, making it more difficult to consistently stop smoking. Symptoms of smoking withdrawal may indicate nicotine addiction or dependence. Dependence occurs when you are unable to consistently stop smoking even though the habit causes you harm.
Causes and Triggers
Nicotine is the addictive ingredient in cigarettes and other tobacco products. Nicotine releases chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help regulate your mood and behavior. Dopamine is among the neurotransmitters that your brain releases when you get a dose of nicotine from smoking. Dopamine produces good feelings when you smoke. You may become dependent on a nicotine-induced dose of dopamine that produces symptoms of withdrawal when you've stopped smoking. Triggers may induce symptoms of withdrawal when you've stopped smoking. Triggers include cigarette cravings after meals, while drinking alcohol or driving. Talking on the phone, stressful situations and the smell of burning cigarettes may also trigger symptoms of withdrawal.
Symptoms
You may experience an intense craving for nicotine and difficulty concentrating when you stop smoking. Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include anxiety, tension, restlessness, frustration and impatience. Headaches, drowsiness and strange dreams or nightmares may occur when you stop smoking. Nicotine withdrawal may also produce depression, increased appetite and weight gain.
Nicotine Replacement Treatment
Nicotine replacement treatment can help you control symptoms of withdrawal when you've stopped smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy involves getting a small dose of nicotine from non-tobacco products that you do not smoke. You follow a phased plan that gradually reduces your nicotine dosage to help curb cravings and other symptoms of withdrawal. Nicotine replacement products or supplements include patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers and nasal sprays.
Non-Nicotine Treatment
Nicotine-free treatment for symptoms of withdrawal when you stop smoking include medication and lifestyle adjustments. Nicotine-free medications such as bupropion and vareniciline are not habit-forming. Antidepressants such as nortriptyline and fluoxetine may also help control your symptoms. Lifestyle adjustments include waiting out your cravings, talking to a support person, eating regular meals and taking part in regular exercise. Cravings may last around five minutes. Go for a walk or do a chore to distract yourself until your craving subsides. You can also rationalize your cravings by replacing the urge to smoke with thoughts that support your stopping. Avoid high-risk or high-stress situations that trigger your smoking.
