| 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. |
Adapted from Cummings et al.Addictive Behaviors Vol. 10:373-381