1. How the Patch Works
Many people use the patch to help them quit smoking and reduce the symptoms of withdrawal (fatigue, irritability, insomnia and headaches). The patch has nicotine in a small dose on the adhesive pad or gel. It is meant to reduce your craving for tobacco; though it iis not a cure, it can be a helpful aid in smoking cessation. The patch can alleviate some of the psychological stress while going through withdrawal and allow you to keep focused on the behavior of quitting smoking. Nicotine patches are available from a variety of companies under different brand names.
2. Side Effects of the Patch
Because the patch is a medication, it is not free of possible side effects. Some people experience headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, nausea, stomach upset or feel flushed initially while the body is adjusting to the medication. These symptoms should pass within the first few days. If you develop a red, itchy or irritated area around the patch site or hives, you should consult with your doctor. More serious symptoms may involve difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, chest pains, nervousness, anxiety, or tremors, to name a few. If any of these symptoms occur, you should notify your doctor immediately.
Monitor to make sure you are not getting too much nicotine and exhibit symptoms such as cold sweats, confusion, diarrhea, changing in hearing or vision, marked weakness, muscle palpitation or seizures). Some people experience difficulty falling asleep or abnormal dreams while on the patch.
3. Interactions
Smoking cessation may affect medication blood levels, with or without the patch. It is critical that you actually stop smoking if you are on the patch. Smoking while on the patch will increase the amount of nicotine in your bloodstream, and could result in increased side effects or possible overdose. The risk of relapse is considered the highest in the first months after quitting, even with the nicotine patch. It is best to utilize a smoking cessation program alongside the patch to ensure success.
4. Relapse
Most people who try to quit smoking experience relapse, so planning for relapse as a part of your recovery program makes sense. A small percentage of people succeed in cessation on their own without mental health support or medical assistance. It is best to not view relapse as failure but to understand that it is a common occurrence. Some people relapse are due to the discomfort of withdrawal (thus the patch). Many people experience anger, frustration or depression around attempts at quitting. Stress can trigger a return to smoking, so finding new methods to cope is very important. The degree of addiction or dependence may be another reason why people relapse, so having adequate support is necessary. Using drugs or alcohol make you let down your guard and tempt you to return to smoking. A concern about weight gain is another reason why people convince themselves to return to smoking.
5. Relapse Prevention and Working through Side Effects
Establishing a support team which incorporates a successful previous smoker can be beneficial. Use public services available to assist you in quitting. Work with your doctor and mental health practitioner to get through the tough times. Keep focused on your reasons for quitting and the benefits of quitting. Congratulate and celebrate each success as you achieve living a smoke free life.
