Symptoms of Withdrawal
If you have been a regular smoker and suddenly stop using tobacco, you will have withdrawal symptoms due to the lack of nicotine.
Things to know about withdrawal symptoms…
- Usually start within a few hours of the last cigarette and peak about 2-3 days later
- Can last for a few days or up to several weeks
- Are both physical and mental
- Can be managed and/or reduced with nicotine replacements
What you can expect
- Physical symptoms of withdrawal (the body reacting to the absence of nicotine)
- Craving
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
Mental symptoms of withdrawal (coping with change in routine and behavior)
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Depressed mood
- Restlessness
- Anger, hostility, aggression
- Thinking and attention problems
- Making excuses or rationalizations – example, “I'll just have one to get through this rough spot” or “Today is not a good day; I'll quit tomorrow.”
