Coping With Withdrawal And Cravings
As a smoker, your body is conditioned to depend on nicotine. When you stop smoking, your brain continues to crave nicotine and you may experience some symptoms of withdrawal. Auricular therapy treatments greatly reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. If you experience some, knowing what to expect and and being able to recognize symptoms will help you get through this phase. The transition to being smoke-free is different for each person.
The most common symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Irritability, frustration, anger, anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Restlessness
- Flu-like symptoms, like coughing, sore throat, fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Problems with sleep
- Slight depression or feeling down
Each person goes through this phase of recovery differently. People seldom experience all symptoms, and the number of symptoms or their intensity will vary. Auricular therapy helps minimize withdrawal symptoms.
How long do withdrawal symptoms and cravings last?
According to Health Canada, the first few days after you stop smoking are the worst. It begins to lessen after 3 or 4 days. After a week to 10 days all withdrawal symptoms should be gone. Your auricular therapy treatments will be very helpful during this period.
The urge to smoke, or cravings, are different for each person. Although it may feel like the craving lasts a long time, it actually lasts only 2 to 3 minutes. So if you can distract yourself, it will pass.
Some people experience increased coughing and headaches for a few days or weeks after quitting. This is not due to nicotine withdrawal. Your lungs are attempting to clear themselves.