special subjects
Smoking Cessation
Nicotine Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms are often powerful enough that even with knowledge of the health risks, many people who smoke are unable to sustain a quit attempt. Smoking cessation can cause intense symptoms, including strong cravings for nicotine in cigarettes, anxiety, depressed mood, inability to concentrate, irritability, restlessness, insomnia, hunger, headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, and sleep disruption. These symptoms are the worst in the first 3 days (when most people trying to quit smoking relapse) and most subside within 2 to 4 weeks in most people, but some symptoms, such as craving, may continue for months or even years. Weight gain is common; quitters gain an average of 4 to 5 kg, and weight gain is another reason for relapse. Temporary cough, headaches, and constipation may develop after quitting.