Smokers who choose to quit smoking typically experience nicotine withdrawals. The symptoms of withdrawal can include restlessness, anxiety, increased heart rate and sweating. Individuals planning to quit smoking should educate themselves about nicotine withdrawal and the various coping tools available to support them during this difficult process. Individuals who are specifically bother by symptoms of withdrawal, such as anxiety and sweating, should seek assistance from a medical doctor to assess the symptoms and learn more about methods to curbs their physical discomfort.
Step 1
Set a specific day to quit smoking. Individuals often benefit from having a firm plan to quit smoking. Choosing a specific date to stop allows the smoker to consult with doctors or support professionals regarding resources to control nicotine withdrawal. Sharing the quit plan with family and friends often helps the smoker avoid situations that may tempt him to smoke.
Step 2
Seek assistance from a mental health or medical professional with experience in treating nicotine withdrawal. A wide variety of treatments can be used to ease the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Some individuals benefit from nicotine replacement with patches or gum, while others choose to treat the withdrawal with psychotropic medications that help ease the restlessness, anxiety and related symptoms, such as shaking or sweating. Over-the-counter and prescription antiperspirants can be used to control excessive sweating if needed.
Step 3
Attend a support group for smokers who are quitting. Quitting smoking is a long and challenging process. Individuals can seek support from community groups that offer meetings and educational seminars to support the withdrawal and recovery process. Smokers often gain motivation and helpful advice from other smokers who have successfully navigated the quitting process.
Step 4
Eat a healthy diet, drink sufficient amounts of water and engage in regularly scheduled exercise. People who stop smoking can often reduce troublesome withdrawal symptoms by developing healthy eating and exercise habits. Exercise can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating, shaking or restlessness, because nervous energy is expending during physical activity. Likewise, a balanced diet and adequate water intake ensures that the body has enough energy and fluids to manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms without excess fatigue.
