Nicotine Withdrawal Timeline

Those who are chain smokers are probably aware of what happens if they don't get their cigarette in time. The nervousness, the sweating, and all these symptoms start showing up, and they simply have to reach out for another cigarette. Perhaps some of you have even tried quitting smoking, but the effects are so harsh upon you, and the time duration so long, that putting your body through all of it just doesn't seem worth it. The nicotine withdrawal timeline refers to the time period during which the side effects of ceasing the intake of nicotine will last. Though this timeline varies based on the individual, it brings with it some effects that are unwelcome. Here, we will talk about the nicotine withdrawal duration, and its associated effects.

How Long Does Nicotine Withdrawal Last?

Those of you who have decided to stop smoking and give up the addiction to nicotine deserve a pat on the back. You just saved yourselves years of misery in terms of health, both physical and psychological, because the effects of nicotine on the body are seriously damaging in the long run. The side effects of quitting smoking, are just little bumps in the way to a healthy lifestyle. Nicotine in the body remains for about 3-4 days after a person quits, and the withdrawal symptoms associated with it kick in within a few hours of quitting. They are at their peak at 24-48 hours after you have quit. The nicotine withdrawal side effects include:

• Severe mood swings characterized by anger, frustration, irritability, and depression
• Persistent and severe headaches accompanied by conditions such as insomnia and sleep disturbed by nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating and focusing, along with poor performance at work and other chores
• Fatigue, weakness, and low heart rate
• Drastic increase in appetite (as an alternative to smoking), causing excessive weight gain.
• Symptoms of a cold characterized by constant cough and sneezing
• Tingling in hands and feet

However, you must know that the benefits of nicotine withdrawal also kick in just 20 minutes within smoking cessation. Take a look at the nicotine withdrawal stages which clearly indicate the benefits your body starts receiving almost instantly.

Time Period	Effects
20 minutes	Blood pressure begins to return to normal Pulse rate returns to normal
8 hours	Carbon monoxide levels return to normal in the body Oxygen levels increase and improve blood circulation
24 hours	Reduced risk of a heart attack
48 hours	Regrowth of nerve endings (causing tingling) Return of healthy smelling and tasting abilities
2 weeks - 3 months	Improved blood circulation Increased energy levels and ability to perform physical activities Reduced cough and wheezing, along with reduction in phlegm, and improved function of lungs
1 - 9 months	Reduced fatigue, wheezing, and shortness of breath Improved function of cilia (structures that transport mucus out of lungs)
1 year	Reduced risk of heart attacks and heart disease
5 - 10 years	Complete elimination of risk of developing cardiovascular disease
10+ years	Reduced risk of developing cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidneys and pancreas Reduced risk of developing ulcers

As time passes and you ensure that you don't head out for a cigarette again, your risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke reduces considerably, making you as healthy as a non-smoker. However, it is essential to know that if you have been a chain smoker, you are still at a greater risk of developing lung cancer than a non smoker. This risk is definitely lower than that of smokers though.

The benefits of quitting smoking are visible in the long run, and it is only when you go through with it will be able to experience the benefits. More often than not, it is the fear of the consequences that stop us from taking action. However, the real experience with these consequences will be known only when you take the action.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.