How to Quit Smoking – Cold Turkey Side Effects

If you ask any smoker if he or she wants to quit smoking, the answer will usually be “Yes, but that’s easier said than done.” Smoking is one of the hardest habits to break. This article on how to quit smoking cold turkey will have you experiencing physical symptoms from nicotine withdrawal, but you will experience psychological withdrawal symptoms just as you would from any other drug.

We will discuss how to quit smoking cold turkey which is quitting without aid of a doctor’s help. This method has more side effects than any other method.

How to Quit Smoking Cold Turkey and The Side Effects on the Digestive System

Heartburn/acid indigestion – If you suffered from this condition before quitting cold turkey, you may find your symptoms a little worse than before, but then they get better. If you haven’t suffered before, your symptoms will last from 3 weeks to 3 months.

Diarrhea – You may experience this symptom for a few days. Take an over-the-counter product to help relieve symptoms.

Constipation – Cigarettes act as a diuretic and a laxative. Take a temporary laxative until symptoms subside in a few weeks.

How to Quit Smoking Cold Turkey and the Side Effects on Sleep

Insomnia – Cigarettes and other smoking products produce deeper sleep. When you quit cold turkey, you are in a lighter dream sleep approximately every 90 minutes, so you feel that you’re not getting enough sleep. You will soon get used to the lighter sleep state.

Vivid dreams – When you experience dreams or nightmares it is a good sign that you’ve changed from smoking to eliminate stress to working your problems out during sleep. Dreaming is good for you.

How to Quit Smoking Cold Turkey and the Side Effects on the Respiratory System

Sinus Congestion – Your sinuses will begin to clear out during cold turkey. Take an over-the-counter sinus relief medication to stop nasal dripping that may last up to 2 months.

Hoarseness – Your throat tissues are beginning to grow new tissue during cold turkey. It is basically regenerating and can last for a few months. Lozenges, lemon and honey, or hot tea can also relieve symptoms.

Coughing/Throat Clearing – Your lungs are in the process of clearing out phlegm, tar, and other debris. Coughing is the best way to clear your lungs.

How to Quit Smoking Cold Turkey and the Psychological Side Effects

Irritability – Withdrawal from nicotine will produce irritability. Try to explain to family and co-workers what’s going on, but they will only be sympathetic to a point. Try pampering yourself with massages, warm baths, extra sleep, and other ways to reduce stress.

Depression – You’ll probably feel like you’ve lost your best friend. You won’t know what to do with your hands or what to do when you drink coffee or eat certain foods that trigger a psychological need to smoke. Try to avoid such triggers and again, pamper yourself.

It is recommended that pregnant women learn how to quit smoking cold turkey rather than use drugs.