Re: Question for ex-smokers

Anne Vasquez wrote:
To those of you who smoked for any significant length of time and then quit, in the first few days, do you remember what symptoms you had from withdrawal? Do nausea and dizziness ring any bells? I fully expected cigarette cravings, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, etc., but after 2 days, I feel so nauseated and dizzy, I'm wondering if it's really tobacco withdrawal or a bug. I'm leaning toward the former (heck, what can a person expect after smoking for 20+ years?), but just curious what others have experienced.

I don't know why I'm answering this thread, because I never smoked (seriously allergic to it, so I thank you for quitting), but I seem to recall reading that the actual craving only lasts about 2-1/2 minutes. If you can think of a little routine to fiddle with for that period of time, perhaps it would give you the distraction you need? I think a big portion of the smoking habit is the ritual involved, not just the nicotine. I seem to recall my sister would cut up carrots and celery--just enough at a time to satisfy the need to fiddle and put something in her mouth. Maybe you could include candied ginger for the stomach upset.

Good luck, however you manage it!

jeanne

.