The duration of the withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking. How to distract yourself during an illness and cope with it? What are the consequences of withdrawal symptoms after quitting smoking?

Everyone knows that when smoking a person significantly shortens his life. Actively working anti-tobacco propaganda, existing bans on smoking are bearing fruit. All more people think about how to get rid of addiction forever. But for many, such plans remain in their thoughts.

Not all heavy smokers manage to quit smoking easily. After all, the nicotine component of cigarettes stimulates the work of the nervous, circulatory and respiratory system takes part in metabolism. Without problems, people are prevented from forgetting about smoking by nicotine withdrawal syndrome. The body can't adjust to nicotine-free new mode and pushes the person back into the arms of cigarettes.

Smoking cessation is called "nicotine withdrawal" and occurs after quitting cigarettes.

The smoking cessation syndrome manifests itself irresistible craving smoke after giving up cigarettes. Tobacco smoking causes a serious dependence in the body on the psychological and physical level. With the penetration of nicotine into the body, the smoker feels euphoria and a surge of strength (these are echoes of exposure nicotine substance to the CNS).

The essence of nicotine withdrawal

The nervous system quickly forms a conditioned reflex: if you smoke, you get pleasure. This is how dependence on psychological level. Only the smoker himself can cope with such a reflex, by connecting willpower and the desire to stop ruining his health.

Psychologists advise when quitting smoking to replace the lost “pleasure” reflex with another, no less pleasant, but healthier one. For example, sports, dancing, jogging or any hobbies and hobbies.

The withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking is called "nicotine withdrawal" by narcologists.

Nicotine is actively involved in all metabolic processes human body. He interferes with the work of literally every cell. It also actively affects the entire peripheral nervous system. With a long period of smoking, this becomes the usual norm.

Symptoms of withdrawal syndrome

A person smokes to feel good. Dependence is also formed at the physiological level. When you try to quit smoking, your whole body will have to adjust to a new mode of functioning, without the participation of a nicotine stimulant. This is sometimes almost impossible.

How long does nicotine withdrawal last?

Nicotine withdrawal is expressed in many unpleasant symptoms. duration and brightness this process individual for each individual. They depend on:

1. age.
2. Smoking experience.
3. The gender of the person.
4. The presence of motivation.
5. health conditions.
6. genetic factors.
7. The number of cigarettes consumed per day.

A person can even psychologically and unconsciously influence the appearance of nicotine withdrawal. He, having studied all subsequent possible unpleasant sensations, involuntarily sets himself up for difficulties. The smoker inspires himself with the idea that it will definitely be difficult and difficult to quit smoking, thereby provoking the development of this syndrome.

Risk factors for nicotine withdrawal

Experts attribute the risk factors for the appearance of bright pronounced syndrome smoking cessation in adolescents. Young personalities, trying to look older and presentable, with their characteristic frivolity, do not think about sad consequences smoking . People who started smoking in childhood, the risk of developing nicotine withdrawal is very high.

Statistics sadly says that the craving for cigarettes is rapidly getting younger. Modern people they try the first puff as early as 10-12 years. According to Rospotrebnadzor, about 30% of children school age are smokers.

Risk factors for the development of a severe withdrawal syndrome include the presence of chronic pathologies. Moreover, a smoker with experience, as a rule, even has more than one chronic disease. Among such persons it is difficult to find completely healthy. This fact leads to the appearance of a complex and prolonged nicotine withdrawal.

Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal syndrome

Nicotine withdrawal has no single symptomatic complex. There are some of the most common manifestations that most quitting smokers complain about. But in any case, it will be impossible to predict whether they will appear in a given person or not.

Nicotine withdrawal is complicated by the fact that tobacco addiction is formed at the level of psychological consciousness.

It is difficult to explain how many unpleasant symptoms will haunt a person - everything is too individual. Common complaints about smoking cessation include the following:

Neurological ailments. Changes in work are involved in their development of cardio-vascular system. It:

• headache;
• dizziness;
• weakness and lethargy;
• increased sleepiness.

After the withdrawal of nicotine, which stimulated the pressure, blood vessels forced to change to new way. Which leads to such manifestations.

Mood changes. These disorders are associated with a lack of brain neurotransmitters. If smoking nicotine actively contributed to the production of “joy” hormones, then after the absence of a stimulus, the brain takes time to begin to form hormones on its own. Up to this point, the ex-smoker is being harassed by:

• nervousness;
• insomnia, poor sleep;
• depressive states;
• constant feeling of lack of sleep;
• lack of joyful perception of the world;
• asthenic manifestations (incontinence of emotions, intolerance external stimuli(sound, light, smell).

In addition to the negative factors in quitting smoking, positive dynamics are also observed in the body.

Increase in appetite. One of the most common and characteristic symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. To constant desire There are two reasons to eat after quitting cigarettes:

1. The absence of the necessary nicotine, which previously actively stimulated the metabolism.
2. Developed stress from the loss of habitual smoking. And any stress, most people are accustomed to "seize" delicious food.

Problems of the gastrointestinal tract. The absence of the usual nicotine stimulant leads to constipation and stool disorders, a feeling of soreness in the peritoneum. Indeed, when smoking, nicotine is a stimulant of peristalsis, after its absence, the intestines need time to rebuild and function healthy.

Nicotine Withdrawal Calendar

The smoking cessation syndrome passes quite smoothly, without tormenting a person with sharp jumps unpleasant symptoms. How exactly this abstinence manifests itself can be seen in the table below:

After the first month after giving up cigarettes, the symptoms of physical dependence subside. But the mental habit is still very great. For six months, a person will be drawn to smoke. He has vivid memories of how wonderful it was to smoke and enjoy the fragrant smoke.

The period from the second to the third month is the most difficult psychologically. According to statistics, it is at this time that people return to smoking again.

The vast majority of ex-smokers note that the withdrawal syndrome reaches its peak on the 4th-7th day after giving up the bad habit. This is exactly the moment when the body understands that there will be no more nicotine doping and it should be adjusted to healthy level work.

It is in this crucial moment every effort should be made not to smoke again. In this case, everything internal systems they will begin to slowly "remember" their healthy existence and work in a new way.

How to help with withdrawal syndrome

To facilitate negative manifestations, many former smokers using nicotine replacement therapy. This method doctors recommend those people who have a long history of smoking, and the number of cigarettes smoked per day varied from one pack. What is used in this case?

1. Nicotine chewing gums (Nicorette, Nicotinell).
2. Patches with nicotine (Nicotinell, Nicorette, Niquitin).
3. Nicotine spray inhalers (Anti-tobacco, Nicorette).

In other cases, the use of these funds is not required. In most cases, the nicotine “withdrawal” proceeds smoothly and does not cause any particular inconvenience to the former smoker.

What is the first step in the treatment of nicotine withdrawal?

It is very important during the period of restructuring the body to a healthy level of work to pay attention to your own well-being. If too painful and unbearable processes appear, immediately consult a doctor.

With a strong cough, you should go for a consultation with a therapist, if you suffer from dizziness and migraine, you need to visit a neurologist. Against the background of refusal of nicotine in a person, many diseases can begin to develop.

Experienced narcologists advise on the background of withdrawal syndrome to sleep more. A person is already drawn to sleep due to the physical manifestations of nicotine withdrawal. And in a dream, it is easier and faster to cope with negative manifestations. Some experts recommend quitting smoking during a cold.

It is noted that in this case, the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal will be very mild or completely absent. This is explained by the fact that with a disease, the body throws all its forces into the fight against the disease, and there is simply no strength left for the manifestation of the withdrawal syndrome.

After the end of the illness, devote more time to sports and active exercise. This will help the body cope with nicotine withdrawal faster. Do not forget about the growing appetite these days. In order not to gain excess weight, review and adjust your own diet.

In the first month of the syndrome, it is recommended to drink more, take vitamins, consume more dairy products, switch to vegetables and fruits. Fall in love with the bath - the sauna with its healing climate will help the body to return to normal faster. Good luck!

When smoking, endorphins are formed in the human brain - hormones responsible for obtaining pleasure. When quitting smoking, characteristic negative changes occur in the body, called nicotine withdrawal syndrome. It includes both physical and mental dependence and can last up to one year. For the purpose of treatment nicotine addiction there are special preparations in the form of tablets, patches and chewing gums, which help to alleviate the well-being of the smoker.

nicotine withdrawal syndrome

Nicotine withdrawal syndrome (nicotine withdrawal) is a set of symptoms that appear in a person when they stop smoking. The severity and duration of abstinence depends on the duration of smoking, on the motivation of a person, the number of cigarettes that he smoked per day and other factors. The occurrence of the syndrome is associated with a habit that is developed in the process of smoking.

The effect of nicotine on the body is manifested in the release of the hormone endorphin in the brain. As a result, the smoker feels cheerful and energized. If a person tries to quit smoking, his body gets into a stressful situation.

Common symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include:

• irresistible desire to smoke;
• headache;
• insomnia;
• constant anxiety;
• dyspnea;
• weakness and lethargy;
• cough;
• constipation;
• increased appetite;
• increased irritability;
• tachycardia;
• anxiety;
• hand tremor;
• manifestation of allergic reactions;
• increased blood pressure;
• dizziness;
• diseases of the respiratory system;
• colds.

The period of physical dependence can last up to 6 months after getting rid of bad habits. But most often acute period is about one week. Mental dependence disappears about six months later.

Changes in the body of a smoker

Already 1.5 hours after smoking the last cigarette, withdrawal syndrome develops. During this period, mood swings, anxiety, irritability, decreased concentration, decreased performance and insomnia are characteristic. From physiological symptoms nausea, headache and dizziness are observed, increased appetite, which subsequently leads to rapid weight gain. These symptoms appear within a week, then the condition improves.

Changes that occur in a smoker's body after quitting cigarettes for a few days:

• 1st day. Quantity carbon monoxide in the blood decreases, the amount of oxygen increases. Physiological symptoms: insomnia, dizziness, weakness and apathy. There is a craving for smoking.
• 2nd day. The body reduces the production of mucus in the lungs. There is irritability and nervousness, cravings for foods with a pronounced taste, abdominal pain, and difficulty sleeping. The craving for smoking is quite strong.
• 3rd day. Decreases cravings for nicotine at the cellular level. There is an increase in irritability. There are manifestations of mental dependence: a person does not know what to do with himself. Increased appetite, cravings for sweets.
• 5th day. The likelihood of a breakdown increases. Feeling worse. There is a cough, in which thick mucus is secreted.
• 7th day. The recovery of the body begins. Physical dependence almost disappears. There is an improvement in appetite, dry skin is observed.
• 10th day. There is a cough with mucus. It becomes harder to bear the presence of people who smoke. On this day, it is recommended to undergo an examination by an ENT doctor and fluorography.
• 13th day. Skin cell renewal takes place. Of the physiological symptoms, weakness, a feeling of malaise and heaviness in the back of the head are observed. The desire to smoke is connected to a greater extent with interest.

Changes in the first year after quitting smoking:

• A month later, mental dependence is more pronounced than physiological. The body has already been restored, but some people may have a desire to smoke.
• In the second month, there is almost no dependence on nicotine, but there is dependence on the very act of smoking. In the lungs, restoration takes place at the cellular level.
• By the third month, the physical attraction to smoking stops. The transitional period has passed.
• By the fourth month, the skin cells are completely renewed, and the complexion returns to normal. The work of the intestines is normalized, the weight no longer increases.
• On the fifth month, liver cells are restored. Sputum is secreted less or not allocated. Doctors recommend starting physical exercises during this period.
• By the sixth month, it becomes easier for a person to breathe. Weight stabilizes. There is no desire to smoke.
• On the seventh month of quitting smoking, a person begins to distinguish subtle shades of smells, and taste sensations improve.
• By the eighth month, when a person coughs, there is no mucus secretion.

The chance of relapse after ten months is 25%. A year after smoking cessation, the risk of relapse is minimal due to the absence of nicotine dependence.

24.01.2018 Narcologist Mikhail Konstantinovich Perekhod 3

withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking

Nicotine withdrawal is caused by the reaction of receptors in the brain to the absence of the next dose of nicotine, similar to hangover syndrome. This is due to the fact that there are more nicotinic nerve endings. Withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking is most pronounced in the first three weeks and can last up to three months, depending on individual indicators person.

Breakdown also occurs when smoking is stopped after a long use of hashish or other substances, the symptoms are identical. In a nicotine-dependent organism, due to the lack of acceptance of familiar substances, the condition worsens.

Abstinence is characterized by the appearance of signs as early as 2 hours after the last cigarette, and every hour the negative manifestations worsen:

• Uncontrollable urge to smoke.
• When hit in stressful situations a person cannot cope with them, breaks down.
• Frequent mood swings, as well as the occurrence of irritability, anger and depression.
• Sense of anxiety.
• Tension during rest, inability to sleep normally.
• Decreased performance and perception of information.
• Constant hunger.
• Headaches and dizziness.
• BP drops, heart beats slower.
• Fatigue.
• Nausea, constipation and flatulence.
• Spasms in the muscles.
• Hypesthesia.

This suggests that the withdrawal syndrome is a disease associated with the absence of a substance to which the body is accustomed. And at the same time, that the process of weaning began to go.

The duration of depression

The duration of nicotine withdrawal depends on individual characteristics person:

1. age;
2. motivation;
3. seniority;
4. health conditions, etc.

Therefore, it is impossible to say exactly how long it will take to get rid of addiction.

Many refuse and do not experience withdrawal. This phenomenon is associated with distractions and a strong desire to quit smoking. To situations that help to overcome this period without physical and emotional load can be attributed:

• serious illness;
• birth of a child;
• death of a loved one;
• strong love;
• doing sports.

Circumstances like these help reduce and overcome nicotine withdrawal, because at this time the brain will be busy with other things.

For others, the syndrome passes quickly, because. they are supported by close people, what needs to be done at such a moment.

If we talk about the stages through which the former smoker passes, then they are divided into:

First stage

After a couple of hours, a heavy smoker develops a nicotine craving. After 8 hours, this state intensifies and it is more difficult for a person to concentrate, become angry and irritable, anxiety appears.

Second phase

It lasts from several weeks to one month and begins after the first days of failure. During this period, a person begins to fight with himself and rush between the choice healthy lifestyle life or taking a dose of nicotine. He becomes unrestrained, even more irritable and emotional. He becomes depressed and has thoughts of committing suicide. Women in this case are much easier to tolerate breaking, but are also prone to depression. In men, a depressed state and constant stress for any troubles are found.

Third stage

After a month, relief comes, the symptoms go away. However, the craving to smoke does not disappear. At this stage, the body cleanses itself of toxins and other poisons that have accumulated during smoking. The period is characterized by the discovery chronic diseases and decreased immunity. To facilitate the work of processes in the body and prevent violations, you should take vitamins and other food supplements.

Sometimes it takes a long time to experience cravings for smoking due to changes in the human body. A person can break down without nicotine for several years, it is important not to break loose and wait until this stage passes.

Withdrawal treatment

Since after giving up cigarettes, lung symptoms nature, the treatment of breaking is possible at home. There are two ways to remove the manifestation of this disease:

• Wait until the symptoms disappear, using all your willpower. It's not a myth, it's a reality more quantity people who have walked this road.
• Remove signs with the help of special tools.

To drugs that will help remove backfire caused by the syndrome include: Tabex, Champix, Lobelin, Bullfighting plus, Zyban, Brizantin. Each medication has its own specifics - it can be an antidepressant or a nicotine replacement agent (they come in the form of a patch), as well as tablets that cause nausea when using tobacco products.

Their substances are designed to make withdrawal symptoms much easier without causing cravings.

There are also other methods, such as folk remedies, which are also aimed at improving the condition and developing an aversion to cigarettes. For this use various herbs sold in pharmacies, or collect them yourself. Also apply baking soda, for this, when a craving occurs, it is enough to put a little on the tongue.

Nicotinic acid (B3) is found in many foods and is recommended by doctors during the acute episodes associated with the syndrome. If the products are in daily menu, then the manifestations will become less sensitive. These include:

• Liver. It is better to give preference to pork, it contains about 30 mg per 100 g of vitamin B3. You can eat no more than 1 time per week.
• Peanut. They contain 17 mg, the same amount can be found in other nuts.
• Vegetables. Most found in potatoes, asparagus, carrots, peas and celery.
• Fruit. A nicotinic acid found in melons, bananas, raspberries and mangoes.
• Mushrooms. Add champignons and mushrooms to your diet.
• Fish. Once a week you can cook tuna, halibut and salmon.

It is important to remember that symptoms must be taken seriously. If they get stronger and don't go away for a long time, specialist assistance is required. You should not wait until they cause irreversible harm to the body, such signs indicate hidden pathologies. They may be in violation nervous system or infectious diseases.

How to distract yourself during an illness and cope with it?

Withdrawal is difficult, and coping with the consequences of cravings for weed or tobacco, and in order not to break loose will help:

1. To begin with, the smoker needs to understand what exactly reminds him of smoking. It could be some kind of morning ritual or a song you heard. All such moments are associated with bad habit, and they lead to the fact that there is a desire to smoke grass or inhale cigarette smoke. Therefore, you need to get rid of the so-called triggers. For example, change the route and pass by a cafe where coffee is usually bought, or not go to lunch with smoking colleagues.
2. The state when you really want another dose of nicotine lasts no more than 10 minutes. You have to overcome yourself and cope with the desire that has arisen. Each time the interval will decrease, and the dependence will go away.
3. Another the right way- clean the house, get rid of all smoking accessories.
4. To speed up the process, you need to enlist the support of relatives, friends and colleagues, announce to them that you are quitting smoking and ask for help.
5. Usually the addiction appears when the smoker is bored, so you need to find a new hobby and take your time. For example, cook dinner, read a book, you can even take a shower when you feel like you might break loose.
6. If in life a person begins to worry, he will reach for a cigarette. In this case, you need to have a few friends in touch who will listen and reassure.
7. Find a thing that will be a symbol of the smoker's refusal from a bad habit. It should always be carried with you, and if an attack begins, then support the talisman in your hand.
8. You can also mentally distract from desire, drawing pictures in your imagination where there is no place for nicotine.
9. Since tobacco products cost a lot of money, you can set aside the amounts that could be spent. Please yourself after the accumulation of something pleasant.
10. Going in for sports will help facilitate the process of weaning, because. relieves stress and uplifts mood.
11. Find a former smoker who will tell you how he went through this path and help him cope with attacks.
12. AT last resort, purchase an electronic device that will temporarily replace conventional cigarettes.

The opinion of those who quit smoking

On the Internet there are many reviews of people who have given up smoking. Most of them report that the unpleasant consequences caused by long-term abuse of tobacco products disappear.

Not all smokers manage to give up their bad habit easily and without problems. Nicotine stimulates metabolic processes and the functioning of the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Therefore, when quitting tobacco, the body, which has become unaccustomed to independent effective activity, hardly adapts to the usual mode of operation and experiences serious discomfort. In everyday life, this is called “breaking”, and experts call it a withdrawal syndrome. How can you get through this easier? unpleasant period and not smoke again?

What is withdrawal syndrome?

« withdrawal syndrome- the result of what long years smoking, nicotine becomes a natural stimulant of many processes in the human body,” says Deputy Chief Physician of the 83rd clinical hospital FMBA of Russia, pulmonologist Alexander Averyanov - that is, he is fully involved in the metabolism and becomes an integral part of it.

Therefore, the symptoms experienced by a person who has given up smoking are more likely to resemble physical ailment. What are the main problems and how to deal with them?

Heart and blood vessels

Nicotine speeds up heartbeat and constricts blood vessels. As a result, an increase arterial pressure and it gives the impression of improved blood flow due to vasospasm.

Therefore, a person who has stopped smoking for some time has symptoms of poor circulation: weakness, headaches, dizziness, loss of working capacity.

How to cope?
To cope with this condition, products containing caffeine, which also increase pressure, allow. However, it is important not to overdo it with caffeine, because it acts in almost the same way as nicotine - constricts blood vessels and stimulates the heart. So some coffee up to two cups a day- can be afforded as a therapeutic agent.

Metabolism

Nicotine stimulates metabolic processes. “Why does weight gain begin after quitting smoking? Averyanov asks. - Nicotine as a stimulant metabolic processes, the body is now lacking.

A person who quit smoking often starts to eat a lot, eating discomfort from nicotine withdrawal. In part, this helps to cope with the desire to smoke, but since the metabolism is already slow, weight gain is very fast.

How to cope?
A person who quits smoking should carefully control his diet - give up for a while fast carbohydrates, fatty foods, alcoholic beverages and spicy dishes that stimulate the appetite.

Avoid Appearance extra pounds will help increase in physical activity. Movement, by the way, is a good way to distract from intrusive thoughts about a cigarette.

Gastrointestinal tract

Nicotine activates the activity of the intestines. During the smoking experience, the intestine gets used to additional chemical stimulation and ceases to function effectively. After nicotine is no longer regularly supplied to the body, constipation may develop for several weeks or even months. Especially if there is a tendency to it.

How to cope?
Eat more products rich in fiber that stimulates the activity of the intestines, for example, products from whole grain. Include sour-milk products and dried fruits in your diet, which, by the way, can seize the desire to smoke. Be sure to consult your doctor if bowel problems persist for a long time.

Respiratory system

“If, due to smoking, respiratory diseases have already appeared - bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), - says Averyanov, - breaking up with addiction can provoke a worsening of their condition.”

Tobacco smoke increases the excretion of sputum from the lungs through the bronchi. A smoker produces much more sputum due to irritation. respiratory tract smoke - that is why the first cigarette provokes active coughing. When smoking stops, the stimulation of the bronchial tubes also ends. Therefore, a person difficult to cough up mucus, which continues to form with bronchitis or COPD.

How to cope?
Stock up on patience. Depending on the individual reactions The period may take up to several months. During it stands move a lot and actively to deepen the breath and encourage natural bronchial cleansing.

If the discomfort persists, consult a pulmonologist. The specialist may prescribe special preparations, which cleanse the bronchi and lungs - this way you make the process easier for yourself.

Conclusion: when quitting smoking, unpleasant symptoms from the most different systems organism, but they can be dealt with quite easily. And the benefits of quitting smoking are risk reduction serious illnesses and improved well-being far outweighs the temporary inconvenience.

The smoker can call 8-800-200-0-200 (the call is free for residents of Russia), tell him that he needs help with quitting smoking, and he will be transferred to the specialists of the Tobacco Cessation Advice Call Center (CTC). If all CTC specialists are busy at this moment, his phone number will be sent to CTC by e-mail, and within 1-3 days they will call him back.

Psychologists and doctors provide counseling to those who apply to the CTC. Psychologists help prepare for the day of quitting smoking, help find a replacement for smoking rituals, together with the person who applied, they will determine the best ways to overcome addiction, and support in difficult moments of the fight against nicotine addiction. Doctors will advise on the most effective healing methods smoking cessation, give advice to patients with various diseases about how best to prepare for quitting smoking, taking into account existing health problems.

withdrawal syndrome- painful, often disease state, which is a reaction of some body systems (mainly the nervous system) to the absence or decrease in the dose of a drug, alcohol, and other psychoactive substances that can be addictive, regularly introduced into the body. Withdrawal syndrome manifests itself mainly in the presence of a pronounced dependence on a particular substance. When quitting smoking, withdrawal symptoms are called nicotine withdrawal.

From the first days after quitting smoking, the following manifestations of nicotine withdrawal are possible: desire smoking, anxiety, irritability, tension, insomnia, depression, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, headache, convulsions, hand trembling, increased appetite, nausea, weakness, fatigue, constipation, tachycardia, increased blood pressure, bradycardia, shortness of breath, feeling short of breath, sweating, allergic reactions, coughing, mouth ulcers, etc. All these unpleasant effects are caused by the fact that, having lost the usual influx, your organs are trying to restore their normal work. This physical (physiological) recovery in one way or another is reflected in the mental and physical condition a person whose body has stopped receiving nicotine. A person experiences stress, the level of which largely depends on the mood of the person quitting smoking.

Nicotine withdrawal, like alcohol and drugs, is a complex of neuropsychiatric and physical symptoms. The thing is that smoking tobacco is addictive, both psychological and physiological. What is the difference between them, and how do they develop? Let's start with psychological addiction.

When smoking, a person, as a result of exposure to tobacco alkaloids (nicotine), feels a short-term surge of strength and vigor due to stimulation of acetylcholine receptors and the release of adrenaline into the blood. Starting with the first, and with each subsequent cigarette smoked, a clear pattern is formed in the central nervous system of the smoker. reflex arc, cigarette in the mouth - inhalation of smoke - pleasure. It should be noted that in an absolutely similar way all encouraging conditioned reflexes. That is, a person does something, then the body encourages him with the release of endorphins, which bring positive emotions. This happens, for example, when physical activity in athletes. But in the case of smoking, endorphins are forced out, and our brain is deceived. According to the rules laid down in it by nature, the action, confirmed by the release of endorphins, is beneficial for the body, and the memory of it must be preserved by all means. This is how psychological addiction is formed, and it is the most difficult to get rid of it, because only the smoker himself can fight it, and no one can do it for him. Only he himself, with his will and good mood, can break this pathological reflex arc.

Now consider the physiological (physical) component of nicotine addiction. The effects of nicotine are ubiquitous and varied, but they are mainly realized through the effect of nicotine on the central nervous system. Nicotine interferes with many metabolic processes in the body. Almost every cell of the body undergoes this intervention, but physiological dependence develops mainly due to the effect of nicotine on the nervous system, not only on the central, but also on the peripheral. Nicotine becomes a participant in biochemical processes in it. As mentioned above, it excites cholinergic receptors, the neurotransmitter acetylcholine is released, which conducts excitation along nerve cells. There is also a release of adrenaline, which, in turn, not only has a powerful versatile effect on the nervous system, but also a stimulating effect on others. endocrine glands and in particular the pituitary gland. There are complex interrelated biochemical processes in the whole body. One thing is clear here - nicotine, like a horseman whipping a horse with a whip, "spurs" all these processes in the body of a smoking person, and the worst thing about this is that with regular smoking, they become as if normal. Over time, the sensitivity of cholinergic (acetylcholine) receptors is dulled and a person, in fact, smokes no longer in order to enjoy smoking, but to feel normal. It becomes uncomfortable without cigarettes.

When quitting smoking, the nervous system and the whole body will have, in its own way, a period of adaptation. The body (primarily the nervous system) needs to learn how to function normally without this stimulant, and this will definitely happen, because all these processes that occur under the influence of nicotine are not natural. In the early days of this "adaptation" a person is stressed and most of the above symptoms are associated with stress, but there are exceptions. For example, one of negative phenomena after quitting smoking, there may be frequent colds of the respiratory system (ARI, possible severe infections), namely the appearance of symptoms of bronchitis, laryngitis and rhinitis (cough, runny nose, nasal congestion). In this case, the following happens - with prolonged smoking, nicotine causes a persistent spasm of the bronchioles. Quitting smoking has the opposite effect - there is an expansion of the bronchi, and as a result, the risk of developing them increases. infection. In principle, the expansion of bronchioles during smoking cessation is normal phenomenon, because bronchospasm in smokers is defensive reaction organism - the organism seeks to limit access as much as possible tobacco smoke into the respiratory organs. Well, the penetration of the infection into the dilated bronchi and the possible disease of bronchitis is the result of a malfunction that many smokers have. There is also an opinion of scientists that in a person who quits smoking, immunity is temporarily reduced due to the cessation of intake. a large number toxic substances tobacco smoke - the immune system"relaxes."

In the first days, a cough is possible that is not associated with the penetration of an infection (although its attachment is also possible). This cough occurs as a result of prolonged irritation of the bronchi and lungs by tobacco smoke. There is a kind of cleansing going on. respiratory organs from accumulated mucus and tobacco smoke products. The cough may be severe with sputum discharge. It should be noted that such a cough may also be due to existing chronic diseases of the respiratory system, which have worsened when quitting smoking.

There are cases when, after quitting smoking, ulcers appear in the mouth. The reason for their appearance, as well as frequent colds, is associated with a decrease in immunity during this period. For years, the mucous membranes of the oral cavity have been irritated by tobacco smoke, and when a person quits smoking, they become very vulnerable to pathogenic microflora, after all:

1. when quitting smoking, general immunity decreases;
2. as a result of prolonged irritant exposure to tobacco smoke, cellular immunity cells of the oral mucosa;
3. with prolonged smoking, the bactericidal properties of saliva decrease;
4. when quitting smoking oral cavity loses its last protection - the bactericidal action of nicotine (and possibly any other components of tobacco smoke).

Obviously, when quitting smoking, it is necessary to protect yourself from colds and pay attention to oral hygiene, and in the event of these unpleasant phenomena, be sure to consult a doctor.

Frequent colds and mouth ulcers are not related to the stress of quitting smoking, and they occur mostly after the most stressful period has already passed. However, most other possible manifestations nicotine withdrawal symptoms that occur in the first days after quitting smoking are directly related to it. That's why, Before you decide to quit smoking, you need to be well prepared. You need to soberly weigh - are you in a good mood, are you ready to maintain peace of mind? In one way or another, stress will certainly arise, but the level of this stress largely depends on you. The stronger this stress is, the more possible are various manifestations of nicotine withdrawal, as well as side effects associated directly with the stress itself. Everything is interconnected here - stress is a manifestation of nicotine withdrawal associated with physiological dependence on nicotine, and nervous tension associated with psychological addiction, aggravates it, and creates more high probability emergence of various side effects.

Do not forget that, afraid of painful sensations, as well as the possibility of more significant manifestations of withdrawal, you yourself create a fertile ground for their occurrence. However, if you know that you do not tolerate stress well, and especially if you suffer from any disease in which stress is dangerous, then you need to stop smoking under the supervision of a doctor. As with any physical addiction, with nicotine withdrawal modern medicine copes very well. There are many ways to stop it, from nicotine patches, which will allow you to gradually reduce the dose of nicotine in your blood, to full transfusion therapy, and the use of nicotinic receptor antagonists, thanks to which you will get rid of all the unpleasant symptoms caused by stopping use in just a few days. tobacco.

At the same time, it should be understood that medicine is not omnipotent, and there is no “miraculous” injection that will once and for all save you from this addiction. Doctors can only help you at the very beginning of your journey, ensuring the normal functioning of your body. But the further path to a life free from this addiction, you will have to go yourself. And this path is far from always easy, you will have to overcome the resistance of your brain with your will, and only after some time, you will finally be able to tell yourself that you have become free from this addiction. Again, how long this “some time” will last is largely up to you. A lot depends on your attitude to the cigarette - it should be extremely negative.

Further. Even judging by the forum and comments in the articles on this site, we can say that quite often people who quit smoking experience shortness of breath, shortness of breath, and it is difficult for them to breathe. It should be noted that this happens not only in the first days after quitting smoking. Shortness of breath (shortness of breath) in the first days after quitting smoking is mainly related to stress. In this case hard breath may be accompanied by high blood pressure and tachycardia. Here, I repeat, you need to be attentive to those people who suffer from diseases in which stress is dangerous.

Sometimes it happens when shortness of breath (shortness of breath) appears when the most difficult, most stressful period of quitting smoking is already behind and, perhaps, quite a bit has passed. long time after the last cigarette smoked (mostly 2-3 weeks). This may be due to the fact that the nervous system of the smoker (in the past) is accustomed to the stimulating effects of nicotine, because nicotine excites the nervous system. It, as described above, excites acetylcholine receptors, adrenaline is released, which, in turn, is known to activate respiration, increase heart rate, and increase blood pressure. Shortness of breath should pass, but it is better to play it safe and consult a doctor on this topic.

It is very possible that unpleasant phenomenon as a violation of intestinal motility. The movement of food mass in the intestines, as well as, in the future, stool(large intestine) is carried out by contractions smooth muscle intestines. We said above that in people who smoke regularly, acetylcholine receptors lose their sensitivity. Acetylcholine, transmitting nervous excitement nerve endings smooth muscles of the intestine, contributes to increased peristalsis of the intestine. When quitting smoking, the tone of this muscle may decrease and the automatism of its contractions may be disturbed, due to the lack of a stimulating effect of nicotine on the "exhausted" acetylcholine receptors.

It is also necessary to say a few words about possible depression and loss of strength. One of the reasons for its occurrence is, also, the lack of a stimulating effect of nicotine. Here again, there is a lack of acetylcholine, adrenaline and their most complex effects on the central nervous system and the body as a whole. This is if you "look" from the physiological dependence on nicotine. But still, its role should not be exaggerated. More significant reason depression is the psychological part of addiction - the absence of the process of smoking and the sensations associated with it. There is not only some restructuring of biochemical processes in the central nervous system, but also consciousness, because addiction to smoking is a disease of consciousness and behavior. In general, the physiological and psychological dependence on nicotine are closely interrelated. Most of the manifestations of nicotine withdrawal are directly related to the central nervous system, and such a manifestation of it as depression is first of all, because our consciousness is “generated” in the central nervous system. depressive state, in one way or another, perhaps from the first days of quitting smoking, and you need to be prepared for this. She will surely pass it is important to try not to give in to it. This is also important because it is depression that is one of the main obstacles to overcoming nicotine addiction - it is clear that it can "knock down" the mood of a person who quits smoking.

A few more words about overweight. When quitting smoking, many people gain weight, this interesting phenomenon is directly related to the psychological dependence on tobacco. After all, food is the strongest natural antidepressant. I think each of you felt a pleasant heaviness in the stomach, after which the world seems beautiful, and the mood rises for several hours. It is this effect that ex-smokers use when they feel bad, without the usual dose of nicotine, they eat. And the positive emotions caused by eating extinguish the negative that arose in their central nervous system under the influence of a pathological reflex that causes a desire to smoke. It is quite natural that trying to defeat these urges, the smoker replaces one addiction with another, that is, instead of smoking a cigarette, he eats something. We must also recognize the fact that when quitting smoking, again due to the lack of a stimulating effect of nicotine on the nervous and endocrine system, possibly a temporary decrease metabolic processes in the body (metabolism). However, lowering the level alone will improve the ability of red blood cells to deliver oxygen, as well as, and, accordingly, tissue respiration, which in to a large extent will help to increase the tone of the nervous system and enhance metabolism. So, this fact can be neglected - if you try to use the same amount of food, as before quitting smoking, then you can completely do without extra pounds. Of course, there are drugs that suppress this side effect(increased appetite), but they cost a significant amount of money and must be taken under close medical supervision.

Please, If in the process of "quitting smoking" any severe symptoms appear, do not neglect to see a doctor. After all, it doesn’t matter what causes, for example, high blood pressure, the important thing is that it is dangerous! We often scold doctors, sometimes justly. In fact, there are talented and not very talented doctors, attentive and rude, but it is clear that they know more than the most well-read patients anyway. Even the worst doctor has at least, medical experience and diagnostic tools. And before quitting smoking, it is better to consult a doctor. At the very least, this is the "" to your approach to quitting smoking.

If you decide you can't quit smoking without help medicines then, it is best to consult a doctor for their prescription. Most drugs have their contraindications and nicotine replacement drugs are no exception. In addition, it may happen that if any symptoms occur, it will be difficult to understand whether they are a manifestation of nicotine withdrawal, or whether they are side effect drug used?

Regarding the above, one more thing should be noted. important point. Some people don't like going to the doctor, even when they're sick or just not feeling well. So here it is there are times when such people, suddenly feeling unwell, consider it a “sure sign” that it is time to quit smoking (sometimes smoking and drinking at the same time). You can't do that because you don't know why. feeling unwell, and as mentioned above, stress can be dangerous in some diseases. Quitting smoking, in this case, can aggravate the disease that caused the poor health. This does not mean that you need to continue smoking, it means that you should definitely see a doctor first!

In conclusion, I want to note that this article was written in connection with the first comments on the article ““, it begins the “Quit Smoking” column. This article is written as a continuation of that article and the rubric as a whole. All articles in this column are interrelated and aim to create a positive mindset for people who want to quit smoking, and as a result, reduce stress, which is one of the main causes of all possible negative side effects. There is no need to be afraid of their occurrence. This article is written, as they say, in fairness. The above can and does happen. She's destined smoking people for which stress is dangerous. With this article I wanted to emphasize that if in the process of quitting smoking any pronounced symptoms arose, whether it be prolonged insomnia, persistent anxiety, depression, or tachycardia, severe shortness of breath, high blood pressure, chest pain, severe cough, fever etc., then you definitely need to see a doctor! After all, it does not matter what caused this or that symptom, the important thing is that it is abnormal, and maybe dangerous! This mainly concerns the elderly, as well as all people with diseases in which stress is contraindicated. For such people, before quitting smoking, you need to talk about it with your doctor.

In any case, there is no need to be afraid. The main problem in the first days after quitting smoking is stress, the degree of which, I repeat, is in your hands. None of the manifestations of the withdrawal syndrome listed at the beginning of the article may be present. In addition, do not forget that in addition to stress, from the first day of quitting smoking, the body experiences great relief, because it will no longer receive great amount toxic substances. All the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal that have arisen will certainly pass. You have to be patient. The most difficult thing is with its most important symptom - the desire to smoke. How long this desire will haunt you depends on you.