Why Do I Experience Unpleasant Symptoms After Ceasing Tobacco Use?

Do you use tobacco daily for at least several weeks?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by irritability, frustration, or anger?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by anxiety?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by a difficulty concentrating?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by increased appetite?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by restlessness?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by depressed mood?

Did you abruptly cease or reduce the amount of tobacco use, followed within 24 hours by insomnia?

Do the symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, you may be experiencing some signs related to tobacco withdrawal. Smoking is related to the development of various diseases including heart illnesses and lung cancer. People who frequently use tobacco continue use it to prevent withdrawal symptoms. The more you smoke, the more nicotine your body needs to feel good. When you stop smoking, you will experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which make it hard for people to quit. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no need to worry. However, if you want to quit smoking and need some extra support, ask your doctor for advises.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying some signs related to tobacco withdrawal. Heavy tobacco use is related to several diseases, including lung cancer and heart illnesses. If you quit smoking, you will experience withdrawal symptoms. The severity of the symptoms depends on how long you used tobacco and how much you use daily. Withdrawal symptoms are likely to go away in several weeks, however, some people may have withdrawal symptoms for months. If you are experiencing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that make quitting hard or impossible, contact your doctor for help. Remember that a tobacco addiction can have fatal consequences if left untreated.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have tobacco withdrawal. Stopping tobacco use can improve your overall health, no matter how long or how much you have smoked. Your doctor may prescribe medication to deal with withdrawal symptoms, and he may refer support groups in your area. Besides, over-the-counter nicotine replacement medications may help, such as skin patches. Also, prescription nicotine replacement methods (inhalers, nasal sprays) may help to reduce symptoms. In this way you can gradually decrease the amount of nicotine that enters your body. Make sure to discuss treatment options with your doctor.