| 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. |
