The first day after you quit smoking, as the nicotine leaves your body, you're likely to notice symptoms of withdrawal. These are signs of your body recovering from smoking. For some people, withdrawal is mild. Others have a harder time. In any case, withdrawal should begin to lessen after the first few days. Use the Four D's listed below to beat withdrawal.
Snacking more
Getting headaches
Having trouble sleeping
Feeling low on energy
Feeling cranky or restless
Withdrawal symptoms and smoking urges are strongest the first few days. Use the Four D's below to help when you crave a smoke.
Inhale through your nose. Try to feel as if you are breathing into your stomach. Then slowly exhale all the air through your mouth. Repeat this 4 to 5 times. This can help calm the urge to smoke.
This keeps your mouth fresh and flushes nicotine from your body.
File your nails. Learn a nursery rhyme. Write a note to a friend.
Put off smoking. The urge to smoke lasts only 3 to 5 minutes.
Date Last Reviewed:
Date Last Modified: 2005-12-30T00:00:00-07:00
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