The first 72 hours after quitting smoking

Feelings of fatigue, irritibility and an extremely persistent headache are all side effects of nicotine withdrawal and are all perfectly normal. Why? Simply because it is in the first 72 hours which nicotine purges itself from your system - regardless of the smoking cessation method you have chosen to use.

Preparation is the key. By knowing what you are in for, you can make plans to deal with the feelings and symptoms and not have to hide away where you won't bother anyone. However it is also a good idea to inform your family and friends (but only if they are supportive) of your goals. This also gives them the opportunity to stay clear if they think you might be a little bit cranky!

Keep in mind, that by making plans in advance on how you are going to handle these symptoms, it can really help if they present themselves. What are you going to feel? What are the symptoms of withdrawal? You may want to include these things on your list:

Angry or agitated: I will find a task to take my mind off the fact that I can't smoke.

Feeling overly emotional or sensitive: Seek out somewhere you can be alone until the feelings subside.

Feeling tired: I will allow myself to be able to rest and heal from my addiction.

Feeling nauseated: I will go outside and get some fresh air.

After I eat I will: Find something to do so I don't crave the 'after-dinner' cigarette.

By drinking lots of fluids, and most especially water, your body's stores of nicotine will be rapidly metabolized and flushed from your system. The downside is that you will have to go to the bathroom more often, but the upside is that the nicotine will clear itself from your system that much quicker and alleviate the physical withdrawal symptoms.

A few things can make the withdrawal symptoms stronger rather than weaker. Caffeine may be one of those. But not for all people. Every situation is unique. Best to judge for yourself. If you are finding that caffeinated drinks are causing you cravings, you should cut down drastically or quit altogether.

Just be careful not to overload your willpower by giving up too many things at once. Perhaps just cut back slowly on the caffeine in the beginning and replace those types of drinks with things that will help rid your body of the nicotine, like fruit juices and water.

A very common side effect during the first few nights is finding it difficult to fall asleep and then to sleep soundly. Even though you might've been exhausted throughout the day, when it's time for bed it seems like everything is racing through your mind and you can't get comfortable.

A couple of tricks can help with your restlessness. The first is to take a hot bath or shower before heading off to bed and the second is to use an over-the-counter sleep aid until the symptoms pass. Keep in mind that your sleeplessness won't last forever. Probably only a few days at most.

Article Source: http://insightpros.com

Desperate to stop smoking? Then read Darren Warmuth's article on the withdrawal to expect in the 72 hours after you quit smoking
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