What to Expect when You Quit Smoking

Like having a baby, getting married, or going to college, knowing what to expect when you quit smoking may help you get through the process more easily. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for as well as some health benefits to look forward to:

Increased Anxiety

At least within the first two weeks, expect to be more anxious than normal. This feeling peaks within 24 to 72 hours and gradually lessons depending on the amount of nicotine in your bloodstream. Expect your day two to be the most difficult day and attempt to keep stress levels at a minimum during at least the first week.

Increased Ability to Smell and Taste

During the same time period you can expect to see your sense of smell and taste improve. Food may taste and smell wonderful now.

Increased Appetite

Along with the increase ability to taste and smell, you may experience an increase in appetite. This is a rebound effect due to the appetite suppressant effect of nicotine.

Decreased Coughing

By 3 weeks to 3 months you’ll likely be able to breathe better. You may find walking up a flight of stairs easier than it has been in years.

Intense Cravings

Even after the initial 3 days of withdrawal, expect intense cigarette cravings to happen on average 3 times a day for the next 3 weeks. These cue induced cravings should only last, on average, 3 minutes, but it can feel much longer. Try timing the episodes or distract yourself; this may help you get through them easier.

Lower Cancer Risk

Studies show that 10 years after quitting, you have half the chance of getting lung cancer as someone who smokes. Along with this you have a decreased risk of mouth and throat cancer, cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke. You also may experience better dental health, less sinus infections and increased lung function.

Keep in mind these are some of the things quitters will find during the quitting process if they are not using nicotine replacement products or drugs designed to curb withdrawal symptoms. If you are using these types of products know that you may have very different symptoms and some of these drugs are linked to serious side effects. Even if you are not using any type of stop smoking aid, talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any new or changing symptoms.

Reference:
http://whyquit.com/whyquit/A_Benefits_Time_Table.html

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