| Symptom |
Possible Cause |
Suggested Coping Methods |
| Craving for a Cigarette |
Withdrawal from nicotine, a strongly addictive drug. |
Wait out the urge. Urges last only a few minutes. Exercise; go for a walk around the block. Practice the four D's - Distract yourself, Deep breathing, Drink water, and Do something else. |
| Irritability |
Body's craving for nicotine. |
Brisk walks, hot baths & showers, relaxation techniques. |
| Fatigue |
Nicotine is a stimulant. |
Take naps; do not push yourself. |
| Insomnia |
Nicotine affects brain wave function, influences sleep patterns; dreams about smoking are common. |
Avoid caffeine after 6PM. Use relaxation techniques. |
| Cough,Dry Throat, Nasal Drip |
Body getting rid of mucous which has blocked airways and restricted breathing. |
Drink plenty of fluids; drink cold water, fruit juice, tea; use cough drops, gum or hard candy. |
| Dizziness |
Body is getting extra oxygen. |
Take extra caution; change positions slowly. |
| Lack of Concentration |
Body needs time to adjust to not having constant stimulation from nicotine. |
Plan workload accordingly; avoid additional stress during first few weeks. |
| Tightness in Chest |
Probably due to tension created by the body's need for nicotine; may also be caused by sore muscles from coughing. |
Use relaxation techniques, especially deep breathing exercises. |
| Hunger |
Craving for cigarette can be confused with hunger pangs; Oral craving - desire for something in the mouth. |
Drink water or low-calorie liquids; be prepared with low-calorie snacks. |
| Constipation, Gas, Stomach Pain |
Intestinal movement decreases for a brief period. |
Drink plenty of fluids; add roughage to diet (i.e. fruits, vegetables, whole grain cereals). |
| Headaches |
Brain is experiencing withdrawal symptoms due to lack of nicotine based on prior conditioning. |
Take a warm bath or shower; do deep breathing exercises; use a cold compress. |
