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Quitting Smoking: Coping With Cravings and Withdrawal

Table of Contents


Overview

Nicotine is addicting. Your body craves it. So when you stop smoking or using other nicotine products, you go through nicotine withdrawal.

During withdrawal, you may feel cranky, anxious, or restless. You may be hungrier than usual. And you may have trouble concentrating, sleeping, or managing stress.

Symptoms of withdrawal are at their worst during the first couple of days or so after you quit. Some symptoms may last a few weeks or longer.

Making a plan ahead of time can help you manage withdrawal and cravings for nicotine. Medicines and nicotine replacement products like gum or patches can help ease symptoms and cravings. This can help you feel better and make it more likely that you won't start using nicotine again. Quit-tobacco programs, support groups, and regular exercise may also help.


How can you get through it?

It's not easy to quit. When you try to stop smoking or using other nicotine products, you go through nicotine withdrawal. To help yourself through this time, plan how you will manage your cravings and withdrawal symptoms.


Credits for Quitting Smoking: Coping With Cravings and Withdrawal

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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