Quit Smoking

[caption id="attachment_2752" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="http://flic.kr/p/24MwuF"][/caption]

Quitting smoking is no doubt a very difficult thing to do. But the positive outcomes for your health far outweigh the short term discomfort you will experience whilst withdrawing yourself from this addictive habit. Knowing what to expect may help you. You may be able to find ways of helping yourself deal with the symptoms you may experience.

Some of the symptoms experienced when withdrawing from cigarettes include-

-        Tingling feeling in the hands and feet

-        Tiredness and irritability

-        Mood changes-anxiety, confusion

-        Disrupted sleep patterns

-        Weight gain

-        Digestion and bowel problems- such as cramps, constipation and nausea

-        Cold symptoms- Coughing, sneezing and a sore throat and sometimes mouth ulcers

-        Sweating, rapid heart rate and headaches

-        Craving for cigarettes as your body has become dependent on the nicotine

-        Dry mouth

Most people who quit will experience a few of the above symptoms. Finding ways to deal with them is the challenge. Relaxation activities, exercise, distraction and taking up a hobby are some of the ways that people cope with this difficult phase. Drinking water or having healthy snacks on hand like carrot or celery sticks help to keep your hands busy and chewing gum can also help during this time. Avoiding situations where there is an increased urge to smoke is also a positive thing to do.

Remember that this is only a temporary phase and that in the future you will feel better for giving up smoking. Along with these uncomfortable symptoms you may start to feel some positive effects of stopping smoking such as increased oxygen levels in your blood, improved sense of taste and smell, easier breathing and increased energy levels. As time goes on there can be other long term health benefits from quitting such as improved circulation, lung function and healthier looking skin.