Consequences of quitting smoking. How long does nicotine withdrawal last and how to cope with it?

Everyone knows that nicotine is a poison, and a huge horse can lose its life if only 1 gram of this substance enters its body. However, the number of smokers is not decreasing in any way, despite the fact that we know from our school days how difficult it is to say goodbye to such a harmful habit. Why is this happening? Everything is very simple. The withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking prevents a heavy smoker from saying goodbye to a cigarette.

ICD-10 code

T65.2 Tobacco and nicotine

F17 Mental and behavioral disorders caused by tobacco use

Epidemiology

Despite the fact that the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking are not as pronounced and go away more easily than in the case of drug or alcohol addiction, many “refuseniks” have great difficulty enduring the physical and psychological discomfort, which occurs due to the cessation of nicotine entering the body.

Sometimes the fight against a bad habit goes in the wrong direction and brings more more problems. It's about on compensation of nicotine consumption alcoholic drinks and excessive consumption of food, which leads to alcoholism and obesity, the fight against which is even more difficult and lengthy.

Causes of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking

Anyone who is familiar with the concept of withdrawal syndrome in alcoholism will easily understand the state of someone who quits smoking, because everyone who “gives up” bad habits experiences something similar. This is explained by the fact that nicotine, like alcohol, has been the driving force behind many biochemical processes in the body for a long time. When quitting nicotine, the body needs to somehow readjust in order to function normally. A certain discomfort is associated with this restructuring, which does not allow the former smoker to return to normal life.

By and large, withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking is a variation of “withdrawal” in drug addiction and abstinence in alcoholism.

The causes of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking can be either physiological (reconstruction metabolic processes in the body) and psychological. Firstly, a person has developed a certain habit, so his hand naturally reaches for a pack of cigarettes. Secondly, certain associations have formed over time. For example:

• "I smoke to calm your nerves»,
• “I’ll smoke and it will become easier”
• "it's more fun with a cigarette"
• “smoking is cool”, etc.

Moreover, cause-and-effect relationships are not taken into account, and even false associations will provoke the development of withdrawal syndrome. Nicotine has a narcotic, toxic and carcinogenic effect, but not a sedative that calms the nervous system. Relieving symptoms of irritability and aggression when smoking is due to the fact that the smoker’s body experiences a greater need for nicotine during stress, and its supply simply relieves the signs of nicotine withdrawal. Those. this is a common sense of self-preservation.

And finally, a person himself can provoke the onset of nicotine withdrawal symptoms, preparing himself in advance for the fact that “it will be excruciatingly painful.” Those. the smoker inspires himself with something that does not even exist yet and, perhaps, will not exist. With such a psychological attitude, it is very difficult to cope with nicotine addiction. He is the one common cause the fact that a person either gives up the idea of ​​saying goodbye to a bad habit, or breaks down in the first days of quitting smoking.

Risk factors

Risk factors for the development of nicotine withdrawal include smoking in childhood and adolescence to look older and keep up with older friends. Teenagers do not yet realize the full danger of smoking and do not think about the consequences, which means they have great difficulty and reluctance to give up this bad habit.

This is facilitated by the attitude modern society, because there is no smoking ban in the country, and nicotine itself is not considered narcotic substance. And statistics say that every year the smoking habit is getting younger. And the ranks of teenage smokers are growing every day, and tobacco in cigarettes is often replaced by other narcotic compositions that cause more severe addiction.

Factors that complicate the course of nicotine withdrawal include the presence of diseases of various organs and systems of the body. Moreover, such a pathology can always be detected in heavy smokers, and even more than one, because it is difficult to find a component of the body on which nicotine would not have a negative effect. This leads to the inevitable onset, intensification and expansion of withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking. But smoking itself is an important risk factor for failures in the functioning of organs and systems human body and the development of various, sometimes deadly, diseases.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking is the banal habit of human systems and organs to “feed” on nicotine and the compensatory processes that are triggered in the absence of it. When quitting smoking or long-term abstinence, the body of a nicotine-dependent person tries to “revive” the state that was when nicotine entered the body in sufficient doses. Futile attempts by the body’s systems to “compensate” for the lack of nicotine lead to a deterioration in the health of the former smoker.

When smoking tobacco, it releases into the bloodstream a large number of adrenaline, in addition, nicotine is a kind of provocateur, forcing the body to produce in excess the hormone of joy - endorphin. Such causeless joy and cheerfulness are a common deception of one’s own body. However, the body gets used to such stimulation, or a kind of doping, and demands “continuation of the banquet.”

Nicotine has the ability to excite nerve cells. Its absence causes disorientation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, which in turn leads to the fact that nerve receptors begin to respond inadequately to external stimuli, causing a feeling of discomfort when quitting smoking.

Withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking

The strength and prevalence of withdrawal symptoms largely depends on the smoker’s “experience” and whether he has concomitant diseases. In any case, the longer the “experience” of smoking, the greater the dependence developed at the time of quitting cigarettes, the more painful nicotine withdrawal will be.

Stage nicotine addiction determined by the body’s ability to restore its functions without stimulation by nicotine. And if at the first stage the physiological and psychological attachment to nicotine is still weak and can be easily treated without causing painful symptoms, then the second stage with an established need for stimulation by nicotine requires a lot of patience and a positive attitude to achieve the desired result.

The third stage of chronic addiction with a fixed pattern of behavior, when the smoking process itself brings pleasure, and many organs and systems are simply destroyed by the effects of nicotine, this is a special conversation. Here without specific treatment no longer possible.

The symptoms of withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking are generally similar to the hangover that accompanies drinking alcohol and withdrawal symptoms in drug addicts, although they are less severe. Nicotine withdrawal has a fairly early onset. The first signs of withdrawal can be noticed already on the first day, and in advanced cases, a couple of hours after smoking.

A person develops causeless irritability, an inadequate reaction to the situation, increased nervousness and anxiety, deterioration of attention and, most importantly, an uncontrollable desire to light a cigarette. Any stressful situation on the first day of quitting smoking is like an explosion atomic bomb, the smoker immediately grabs a cigarette.

No matter how hard it is on the first day, it usually gets even worse on the second or third day. In addition to the existing symptoms:

• headaches and dizziness,
• difficulty falling asleep,
• "dog" appetite,
• memory impairment,
• weakness and prostration,
• depression, depression, thoughts of suicide,
• hyperhidrosis,
• violations heart rate, shortness of breath,
• trembling hands
• feeling lack of oxygen,
• systematically recurring cough, etc.

Coughing attacks in in this case most often occur in the morning. After getting out of bed. Thus, the body cleanses the lungs of harmful smoking products and mucus accumulated there. This cough is a natural process and is not associated with infectious or colds.

However, during this period, the appearance of a cough accompanying respiratory diseases cannot be ruled out. The fact is that, protecting itself from harmful substances in tobacco smoke, the body practiced narrowing of the bronchioles. Now that there is no such need, the bronchioles expand, giving way various kinds infections and viruses entering the body through the respiratory system. A decrease in the body's protective functions during the period of quitting nicotine is the cause of frequent ENT diseases, as well as the appearance of rashes and ulcers on the oral mucosa.

The duration of smoking withdrawal syndrome varies from person to person. Usually its symptoms go away within the first month, however, a certain craving for cigarettes and the desire to smoke may remain for another year. Therefore, a psychological attitude is very important, which does not allow you to return to such a harmful activity as smoking after a while.

Withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking marijuana

Withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking different people may proceed in different ways. It is not necessary that all symptoms be present. Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal also depend on the type of cigarette filler. If adults most often smoke tobacco-based cigarettes, then young people and teenagers practice smoking “weed” (hemp, or otherwise marijuana), considering it generally harmless. narcotic relaxing effect.

Many teenagers believe that marijuana is not addictive and that it is always easy to stop using it. Perhaps marijuana does not damage brain cells and does not produce irreversible changes in a person’s psychostatus, but psychological dependence exists from it, and can be quite strong, stronger than the physiological one.

As with tobacco, quitting smoking marijuana can cause discomfort that goes away after a while. But there is one peculiarity to marijuana withdrawal syndrome. If a person receives large doses of this drug for a long time, his withdrawal symptoms are mild. This is due to the fact that alkaloids and other psychoactive substances in marijuana have a long period excretion, up to 30 days.

Addiction to marijuana, and in fact withdrawal syndrome, observed in individuals who systematically smoke weed for at least 2-3 years. Besides known symptoms withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking, drug withdrawal has specific manifestations. A person not only becomes irritable and sleeps poorly, he may experience chills and trembling hands, his appetite is greatly reduced, and therefore the smoker loses a lot of weight, and unpleasant sensations appear on and under the skin (burning, twitching, tingling). In addition, there is a feeling of squeezing in the chest and temples, lack of air. Sometimes symptoms of lethargy and twilight of consciousness appear.

Usually this condition lasts from 3 to 7 days, and sometimes drags on for several weeks. At more severe stages with a “experience” of drug addiction of 9-10 years, noticeable psychological and psycho-emotional changes are observed. A person loses interest in life and study, stops developing, and is constantly depressed. Memory and performance are noticeably reduced, mental activity especially suffers.

Since a marijuana cigarette contains no less toxic substances than 15-20 regular cigarettes, the consequences of smoking it are more serious. Weed lovers experience numerous health problems, which worsen when quitting smoking. In addition, smoking marijuana itself can cause complications already existing diseases. The respiratory, digestive, nervous, immune and reproductive systems are especially affected. In adolescents under 17 years of age, physical and intellectual development is inhibited. And for women, smoking marijuana is fraught with infertility.

Diagnosis of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking

If we carefully consider the symptoms accompanying smoking cessation, we will see that they are not specific. Such manifestations are characteristic of many diseases of various organs and systems of the body. This is the whole difficulty of diagnosing withdrawal syndrome. This is why it is so important, when you contact your doctor for help, to let him know that you are quitting smoking.

By and large, ideal option It is important to see a doctor before you decide to take such a decisive step, and not when it has already been taken and you are reaping the unpleasant fruits of the first days of quitting smoking. Diagnosis in this case will include collecting anamnesis verbally and writing. The patient fills out a special questionnaire in which he indicates at what age he became addicted to smoking, what reasons accompanied the onset of the addiction, how many cigarettes a day he currently smokes, how often and under what circumstances the frequency and duration of smoking increases, etc., etc. .P.

Based on the questionnaire and the patient’s story, the doctor assesses the existing symptoms, psychological readiness to smoking cessation and the health status of the smoker. Information on the last point is provided by both anamnesis and an external examination of the patient, as well as urine and blood tests, measurements of weight, blood pressure and pulse rate, and a study of respiratory functions using spirometry.

The diagnosis is made based on differential diagnosis, based on research into the patient’s personality and degree of tobacco addiction. Treatment is prescribed according to the diagnosis, taking into account existing diseases and health problems. If there are any, a treatment and prophylactic course regarding these diseases can be prescribed in parallel.

Treatment of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking

If the patient has a strong will and desire to quit smoking, and the withdrawal symptoms are so severe that they can be tolerated, drug treatment not assigned. Sometimes, however, you may need the help of a psychologist.

If the signs of nicotine withdrawal are sufficiently severe and the smoker is unable to cope on his own, medications are prescribed that can alleviate the patient’s condition and help cope with problematic addiction.

"Cytisine"- a medicine with sufficient “experience” that has proven itself in the treatment of nicotine addiction. Active substance The drug is a plant alkaloid of the same name, which is similar in action to nicotine, but is safe for the body. Taking the drug allows you to painlessly quit nicotine, preventing the occurrence of nicotine withdrawal symptoms. In addition, cytisine noticeably distorts sensations if a person suddenly cannot restrain himself and tries to smoke again. Now the smoking process will not be as pleasant for him as before.

To treat nicotine addiction and relieve withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking, a drug available in the form of tablets or patches is used. The drug provides an opportunity to quit smoking gradually, reducing the number of cigarettes smoked during the day.

Dosage and method of use of Cytisine tablets. The drug is taken according to a special regimen, starting with 6 tablets (6x1.5 mg) per day every two hours for 3 days. Treatment is continued only if a certain effect is observed, but if it is not, then a second attempt is made after 2-3 months.

So, in the next 8 days, the break between taking tablets is increased to 2.5 hours (5 tablets). Next 3 days the patient takes tablets every 3 hours, their number is reduced to 4. Then for 3 days the tablets are taken every 5 hours. And finally, from days 21 to 25, it is enough to take 1-2 tablets per day.

The frequency of smoking decreases gradually until day 5 inclusive, after which you should give up cigarettes altogether.

Method of using Cytisine patches. The dosage of the drug in this release form is determined individually. The patch is attached to the cleaned inner part forearms for 2-3 days, then repeat the applications symmetrically on the other hand. The course of treatment takes from 1 to 3 weeks.

There is a version of the patch that is attached to the gum or area behind the cheek. In the first 3-5 days, the patch is changed 4 to 8 times a day. When noticeable effect The frequency of application is reduced every 3-4 days: 5-8 days – 3 times, 9-12 days – 2 times, 13-15 days – 1 time.

The course of treatment can be repeated if the need arises.

Side effects of the drug remind themselves of pain and disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract, changes taste sensations, headaches and dizziness, sleep disturbances, nervousness, disturbances in the strength and rhythm of the heart, increased blood pressure. Sometimes shortness of breath, increased sweating, and various allergic manifestations are observed. These symptoms occur extremely rarely.

There are also certain contraindications to the use of the drug. These are some diseases of the heart and blood vessels, ulcerative lesions Gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage, pulmonary edema, asthma. Pregnant and nursing mothers should not take the drug.

Precautionary measures. Although the drug is available without a prescription, you should definitely consult your doctor about its use. Indeed, in addition to multiple contraindications, it can have negative impact and for some other diseases, a list of which can be found in the instructions. This includes age, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, gastrointestinal tract disease, etc.

If you are taking other drugs in parallel with Cytizine, then you should mandatory read the paragraph in the instructions about drug interactions with the drug.

The drug contains lactose, which must be taken into account when prescribing to avoid intolerance reactions.

More modern analogue the previous drug with the same active substance is "Tabex", which is also prescribed for withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking.

A drug with the somewhat funny name “Champix” and the “appetizing” active ingredient varenicline has an effect similar to the two described above, significantly reducing cravings for cigarettes.

The drug goes on sale in various packages designed for primary, secondary and full course treatment. There is also a release form option for maintenance therapy.

Dosage and method of application. It is considered optimal to start taking the drug in advance, i.e. 1 or 2 weeks before the expected date of quitting smoking. It is possible to use the medicine during the period of nicotine withdrawal, but in this case you need to give up cigarettes during the first month of treatment, while the full course of therapy takes a little less than 3 months.

Tablets can be taken before, after or during meals according to a special scheme:

• Days 1-3 – 1 tablet of 500 mcg or ½ tablet. in 1 mg (taken once a day)
• Days 4-7 – the dosage is doubled (1 mg) and divided equally into 2 doses (500 mcg each)

Starting from day 8 until the end of therapy (11 weeks), the patient takes 1 mg 2 times a day. In case of amplification side effects The dosage of the drug is reduced, and if a relapse occurs, a second course is prescribed.

This drug has significantly fewer contraindications than the previous ones. In addition to individual intolerance, these include critical stages renal failure with tissue death, young age up to 18 years, as well as the period of bearing and feeding a child.

Side effects of the drug include the appearance of withdrawal symptoms in the first days of treatment, but they are much easier to tolerate than without the use of the drug. In addition, there may be pain in the chest and back, exacerbation or appearance of respiratory diseases, weight gain, but in this case it is difficult to distinguish between the effect of the drug and natural reaction the body to nicotine hunger. Sometimes allergic reactions occur, which are rarely severe.

Precautionary measures. The use of the drug in patients with schizophrenia requires special caution and dose adjustment.

When skin rashes and discomfort on the skin, you should stop taking the drug and inform your doctor.

The drug may cause drowsiness and impaired attention, so you should not perform actions that require attentiveness and caution during therapy.

"Zyban"- a drug for nicotine addiction, which can only be purchased with a doctor's prescription. The drug has some advantages over those described above. This is an antidepressant that helps not only reduce cravings for nicotine, but also normalize mental condition smoker, i.e. relieve irritability, depression, improve sleep. In addition, Zyban prevents such an unpleasant symptom as weight gain after quitting smoking.

The therapeutic course ranges from 7 to 12 weeks, after which almost all patients noted a lack of desire to smoke. Such results were observed even in heavy smokers, daily norm cigarettes which consisted of at least 2 packs.

You can start treatment with Zyban either a week before completely quitting cigarettes, or during the first days of life without cigarettes. Gradual cessation of cigarettes should occur during the first 10 days of therapy.

The dosage and method of use of the drug are regulated by the doctor individually. Most often, treatment is divided into 2 stages: 6 days, 1 tablet per day, then until the end of the course, 2 tablets per day (in 2 doses with an interval of at least 8 hours). The tablets are not intended to be chewed or sucked. Do not take immediately before bedtime.

To very rare side effects the drug may cause breathing problems (involuntary whistling, feeling of pressure in the chest), swelling different parts body, most often the face and mucous membranes, pain in muscles and joints, skin rash, fainting states, seizures and convulsions. These symptoms should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Slightly more often (1%) an exacerbation of withdrawal symptoms occurs, nausea and vomiting appear, and taste sensations are distorted.

Contraindications to the use of the drug are:

• epilepsy or manic depression in the anamnesis,
• recent use of tranquilizers and sedatives, monoamine oxidase inhibitors for the treatment of depressive conditions, drugs that contain buprofion – active substance"Zibana."
• consumption of alcoholic beverages, including situations of giving up alcohol after binge drinking,
• the presence of tumors in the brain or central nervous system, even if this is already in the past,
• cirrhosis of the liver.

Contraindications to the drug include hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, a tendency to allergic reactions, During pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Precautionary measures. Incompatible with alcohol. Affects action psychotropic drugs. Cases drug interactions with other drugs are described in the instructions, which are mandatory for study.

May cause dizziness, which must be taken into account when working with machinery.

If for some reason a dose of the drug is missed, further doses are taken at the usual dosage, without doubling the dose.

Special inhalers, chewing gum and patches containing a small dose of nicotine and simulating the sensations of smoking, as well as electronic cigarettes for fans of the smoking process itself, help you quit smoking faster.

Supportive treatment may be provided sedatives and tranquilizers (Seduxen, Elenium, etc.), restorative drugs (ginseng root, etc.), including vitamins and vitamin complexes(for example, Undevit or Decamevit). As part of complex therapy, it is important to use solutions for mouth rinsing, which without danger to the body change the taste and other sensations from smoking.

Physiotherapeutic treatment for smoking withdrawal syndrome is used in the form of breathing exercises, acupuncture and reflexology, the most effective of which is auricular reflexology.

Traditional treatment for nicotine withdrawal

It should be immediately mentioned that no treatment will help unless the person himself decisively wants to quit smoking. Without corresponding psychological mood and the readiness to steadfastly endure all the hardships of the withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking, medications will not be able to move the matter forward. And what can we say about methods and means? traditional medicine. After all, the effectiveness of many of them is based on self-hypnosis. Yes, they help cleanse the body of toxins and tars, neutralize the negative effects of nicotine, and have sedative effect, but they are unable to make you give up your bad habit or create an aversion to cigarettes.

By itself traditional treatment will not help a person cope with nicotine addiction, but as part of complex therapy it will undoubtedly provide positive effect on the entire body, weakened by the effects of nicotine. That is why some traditional medicine recipes are worth paying attention to.

1. When quitting smoking traditional healers It is advised to use water as a source of life. If you want to smoke, drink! Drink clean water and drinks based on it. It's better if they are herbal infusions or vitamin drinks made from fruits or jams rich in vitamin C, which is considered the enemy of nicotine.
2. 2. Has a good tonic effect green tea, which can be combined with vitamin drinks and herbal infusions.

You can prepare an anti-nicotine infusion based on green tea. To do this, tea leaves are mixed with chicory and medicinal herbs(chamomile, rue, nettle, mint, valerian).

1. An excellent addition to anti-nicotine tea is a delicious treat made from beets, lemon and 1 spoon of honey.
2. Raw oats, as a base for infusions and decoctions, are wonderful tonic, reducing cravings for cigarettes. For example, 2 tablespoons of oats infused in a glass of boiling water, or a decoction of oats, millet, rye and barley, taken in an amount of 100 g each (boil in a liter of water for 10 minutes) will help the body quickly cope with nicotine addiction and restore its strength.
3. If you do not suffer from heart disease, replace regular cigarettes rolled-up paper with medicinal herbs that have sedative effect or useful “little things” (dried fruits, seeds, nuts, sticks, cheese, etc.).

Don’t forget about herbal treatment, because some of them have the properties of causing aversion to nicotine, especially in herbal preparations:

• Coltsfoot, oregano, marshmallow root.
• Horsetail, nettle, gills, knotweed, Icelandic moss, common pikulnik.

And, for example, a collection of valerian roots, caraway seeds, chamomile flowers and hop cones will help cope with irritability, calm the nerves, and normalize sleep disturbed during the development of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking.

An infusion of string grass and strawberry leaves cleanses the lungs of tars and harmful substances. In addition to the ability to cause hostility to nicotine, wormwood infusion also has the same effect.

Homeopathy and nicotine addiction

Many people believe that homeopathic remedies for nicotine withdrawal are ineffective. And in vain. Modern homeopathy has remedies such as sedative effect, which is important for the raging nerves of a former smoker, and reduces the craving for smoking.

For example, homeopathic medicine "Nikomel" is able to influence the vegetative-vascular and neurotic symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, as well as significantly reduce the desire to “puff”. It is used both in the treatment of nicotine addiction and to alleviate the patient’s condition during the development of withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking.

Since it is a drug from natural ingredients, then there are very few contraindications for its use. The drug should not be used to treat persons under 18 years of age, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with hypersensitivity to the components of a multicomponent product. Side effects can only be observed if the last condition is not met and manifest themselves in the form of reactions immune system.

Like most homeopathic remedies, Nicomel tablets do not need to be chewed and washed down with water. It is enough for them to remain in the patient’s mouth until they completely dissolve. Depending on the condition, you should take the drug, no more than 6 tablets per day between meals. It is advisable to do this when necessary or when a strong desire to smoke arises.

"Tabakum plus"- quite young, but very effective homeopathic remedy from cigarette addiction, which has many positive feedback. Its action can be envied by many medications. The drug helps in the fight against smoking in its own way. It helps restore the systems and functions of the body, freeing them from nicotine intoxication, and accordingly, dependence on nicotine is reduced. "Tabacum Plus" does not weaken the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome, but prevents its onset.

The drug is available in the form homeopathic granules. As part of complex therapy, its usual dosage is 8 granules at a time, taken five times. You need to take the tablets between meals, dissolving them in your mouth. It is recommended to take 1 more granule while smoking.

There is another dosage regimen that is prescribed if Tabacum Plus is the main treatment for nicotine addiction and for smoking withdrawal syndrome. This scheme is similar to many medications. According to it, the number of granules per day gradually decreases:

• Days 1-5 – 3 granules up to 8 times a day
• 6-12 days – 3 granules up to 5 times a day
• Days 13-19 – 1 granule between meals
• Days 20-26 – 1 granule on a lean stomach, preferably in the morning.

The granules are either kept in the mouth (under the tongue or behind the cheek) until they dissolve, or dissolved in a spoonful of water and drunk.

The drug has virtually no contraindications and side effects except for immune system reactions. It can be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as for the treatment of adolescents and children.

"Ceres compositum"- another effective homeopathic drug that has no contraindications or side effects. Its action is based on simulating nicotine intoxication, which causes positive emotions in the smoker and, accordingly, considerable cravings. The smoker’s body is not able to recognize deception, so there are no withdrawal symptoms, as well as no harm to the human body.

Mode of application. The application regimen is similar to the previous drug, but is noticeably extended over time:

• Days 1-14 – 3 granules up to 5 times a day
• Days 15-36 – 3 granules up to 3 times a day
• Days 37-58 – 3 granules once a day.

The treatment, as you can see, is long-term, but completely safe and even pleasant. The granules must be sucked every time you want to smoke.

"Bullfight plus" - herbal preparation based on calamus roots and mint leaves, which is produced in the form of tablets, which again need to be dissolved. It has a good general strengthening and tonic effect, reduces intoxication of the body and causes a persistent aversion to tobacco smoke, causing nausea at the very thought of smoking.

You can take the drug whenever you have a craving for a cigarette, but not more than 30 tablets per day (1 tablet per dose). Typically, the course of drug therapy lasts about 5 weeks, after which there is either a significant decrease in cravings for nicotine or complete failure from a bad habit.

Contraindications to the use of the drug are limited to individual reactions of intolerance, which, if neglected, causes the development of side effects in the form of allergies.

Precautionary measures. Smoking while taking these tablets may cause discomfort, so it is better to abandon such attempts.

Nicotine produces a complex effect for which it is spontaneously consumed by animals and humans. It is widely recognized as the most important substance of abuse because nicotine addiction leads to smoking, which is the most common potentially preventable cause of death in the United States.

Every smoking man Over time, he comes to the decision to give up the addiction. Most often, it is not possible to do this the first time, because at certain stages self-control is lost and cigarettes again become a part of everyday life.

To make quitting smoking as comfortable as possible and have lasting results, you need to mentally prepare for it. Knowing all the possible pitfalls of one’s own consciousness, it is easier for someone who quits smoking to cope with periods of withdrawal and temporary weakness.

Starting smoking and quitting it after a long period is stressful for the body. Such a shake-up can lead to a number of unpleasant consequences. After quitting smoking, many note that they begin to get sick more often. For some, this becomes a reason to doubt the correctness of their decision. However, this condition is normal. On medical language it is called withdrawal syndrome, a term that applies to various types of addictions, including alcohol and drugs.

Important! Withdrawal syndrome (abstinence) consists of sudden changes in the body, which is accustomed to the regular intake of certain substances. This means that having gotten rid of daily intoxication, the organs and blood will begin to be intensively cleansed and remove the poisons accumulated in the cells. That is, they will have to work under pressure and adapt to a new life.

To ensure that the changes associated with quitting smoking are not drastic, it is recommended to reduce the number of cigarettes gradually. But this advice does not suit everyone. Many will remain smokers if they don’t quit at once.

Symptoms that occur when quitting smoking

All these troubles can frighten a person, make him regret his decisive and right step on the path to health. It is important to remember that the symptoms are temporary, on average 2-3 weeks will pass, and normal health will return. The body needs time to transition to a new mode of operation. But after a total cleaning and spring cleaning All organs will begin to function even better, and the sores will go away.

Prevention of withdrawal syndrome

To make smoking cessation symptoms go away faster, you need to help the body remove toxins and strengthen the immune system:

• consume fermented milk products;
• sleep more;
• do not allow large physical activity and severe fatigue;
• take a walk in the fresh air every day;
• drink medicinal decoctions to support the immune system and remove waste and toxins;
• adjust your diet so that one third of it is vegetables and fruits, the other third is proteins (meat, fish, dairy products), and the last third is carbohydrates (pasta, cereals, potatoes, baked goods, sweets);
• drink more clean water.

The benefits of quitting smoking. Part 2

Such activities will help you quickly get rid of discomfort and weakness. In addition, they can form a habit the right image life.

How to prepare to quit smoking. Stage 1

It has been proven that smoking is a disease. And on the road to recovery, every smoker goes through the same stages. Only one does it more successfully. And for the other - after several attempts. Knowing what stages await you on the path to victory, it is easier to be prepared and not give in to the temptation to smoke again.

Important! The most important thing in the early stages is to keep the target in a constant field of view. There is no need to be upset about gaining weight, especially if you have a strong tendency towards it. Don't blame yourself for eating too much. The main thing is not to smoke, the rest is secondary.

Some more determined people manage to avoid the fourth stage, but this is rather the exception to the rule.

Motivation and consistency

So that your efforts are not wasted and you do not have to quit smoking several times, you need to clearly formulate your motivation and write it down on a piece of paper. It is better to place the list in a visible place, for example, attach it to the refrigerator with magnets. In moments of doubt, reread what you wrote down and remind yourself that smoking interferes with your happiness.

The motivating list can include:

• good health (no shortness of breath, vascular problems, cough);
• a positive example for children to whom you tell that smoking is bad, but show something else;
• calmness and absence of gloomy thoughts about death and oncology;
• excellent condition of skin and teeth;
• fresh breath;
• increasing self-esteem, a reason to be proud of yourself.

Each list will be supplemented with items that are important to them. There doesn't have to be a lot of them. The main thing is that they have great significance for you. Please note that the list contains positive points that will come into your life without smoking. There is no need to dwell on the negative, it causes increased anxiety.

Attention! Important systems approach in quitting smoking. For some people, various patches, tablets, magnets, and acupuncture can help. For some, the most effective is a new hobby that captures attention and distracts from cigarettes. Consistency is also expressed in relentless pursuit of the goal. Only with a serious and consistent attitude to business will you succeed.

How to quit smoking comfortably and without relapse

Attention! Why is quitting smoking so hard? To a non-smoker, the problem seems far-fetched, and inhaling smoke seems like a dubious pleasure. The smoker becomes so accustomed to the process and sensations associated with smoking that he ceases to imagine himself without it. That is, dependence is formed both at the physiological and psychological levels.

It’s hard to say what’s harder – to overcome physical cravings or moral ones. What stops a person from giving up cigarettes completely? This is the fear of being alone with your problems without support and support. In this sense, the chorus from Viktor Tsoi’s song can become a smoker’s anthem: “... if you have a pack of cigarettes in your pocket, then everything is not so bad today.” Anxiety prevents you from quitting poisoning or forces you to go to other extremes - instead of using tobacco, chew a lot, suck on candy, and eat constantly.

The emotional sphere during the period of quitting smoking is very vulnerable; you can protect it in several ways:

Attention! It is important to keep busy so as not to allow thoughts about a cigarette and nervous breakdowns. This is collateral peace of mind which will help you avoid making mistakes.

After quitting smoking, celebrate new changes in yourself every day. For example, how the taste of food has changed, how pleasant and easy it has become to breathe. Celebrating your achievements will make you even more convinced that there is no turning back. Only forward – to a healthy and happy life!

Video - Four stages of quitting smoking. Smoking and environment

Video - How to quit smoking at home

Tobacco causes a strong addiction in the body, which is equal to drug addiction. Nicotine is involved in metabolism, making it very difficult to get rid of addiction. Every person who has quit or at least tried to quit smoking knows that doing so is not as easy as it seems at first glance. The body's response to quitting smoking often leads to various symptoms, because he is already accustomed to the effects of nicotine smoke, so completely giving up the bad habit causes his stress.

What are the benefits of quitting smoking?

The benefits of quitting smoking are simply enormous. Many people try to quit this bad habit. economic purposes, because now a pack of cigarettes is expensive. And if you quit smoking, you can save a lot of money. However, there are other positive aspects:

• The body is cleansed of harmful waste and toxins, which have a negative impact on the functions of all internal organs. Under their influence, immunity decreases.
• The blood is better enriched with oxygen, which feeds all cells. This causes the aging of internal organs and skin to occur more slowly.
• Lung volume increases and returns to its previous level. People who quit smoking often experience a reduction in symptoms chronic diseases respiratory organs.
• The risk of lung cancer, hypertension, heart and vascular diseases is reduced.

1. The first day of quitting smoking usually proceeds without any problems. The amount in the blood decreases carbon monoxide, due to which it is better enriched with oxygen. A person feels joy and pride in himself. You become confident that you will actually be able to quit your bad habit. The urge to smoke is very weak or completely absent. However, if you do not smoke for 1 day, this does not mean that smoking is left behind. After all, usually in the following days the symptoms of withdrawal become more pronounced.
2. Not smoking the first day is easy, but the next day of quitting it becomes difficult to suppress your addiction. During this period, the first symptoms of nicotine starvation appear. The joy of the first day is replaced by irritability and aggressiveness. The craving for smoking increases, but it can be reduced with the power of thought. Shortness of breath, cough, and abdominal pain appear. It is very difficult to fall asleep during this period.
3. On the third day, nervousness intensifies and symptoms of addiction increase. All the smoker’s thoughts are focused only on cigarettes; he does not know how to distract himself. It is almost impossible to fall asleep, sleep is interrupted. Peeling of the skin and the appearance of pimples are possible.

On this day, you definitely need to distract yourself with something. It is recommended to do something you love. Physical activity is also a good distraction from thoughts about tobacco. You can start repairs and rearrange furniture. Many people solve this problem with food with a pronounced taste.

1. The body's recovery continues, blood flow to the brain increases to normal levels, and lung repair occurs. The person becomes less aggressive, irritability decreases. Some people use special drugs to suppress your emotional state (for example, diazepex). In most cases, there is an improvement in mood, but there is absent-mindedness in actions. It is easier to fall asleep, but the sleep is superficial. Mild dizziness and tinnitus may occur. Sometimes swelling of the hands and face appears.
2. The fifth day is the turning point for quitting smoking. The urge to smoke is very strong, and the likelihood of relapse increases. It is believed that if you resist the craving for tobacco on this day, you will also be able to overcome yourself in the future. The cough becomes wet and dark mucus is coughed up. The taste of food improves as microtraumas on the surface of the tongue heal, thereby restoring taste buds.
3. On the sixth day, “white blood” cells are formed for the first time without exposure to nicotine. Intestinal motility is normalized, and further restoration of the lungs occurs. This stage of quitting smoking is characterized by the same symptoms as on the third day. The so-called withdrawal syndrome appears when a person wants to start smoking again. Sleep is disturbed again, the smoker becomes very irritable and aggressive, trying to find cigarettes. It is very difficult and even impossible for him to restrain himself. Hand tremors become more pronounced, the person sweats more, and feels sick after every meal. Blood particles may appear in the expectorated mucus.
4. If you don't smoke for a week, the stage physical dependence to nicotine will be completed. After this, an intensive process of recovery of the body will begin. The slowest repair occurs in the lungs, blood vessels and nervous system. On the seventh day, a person stops thinking about cigarettes, so it is important that nothing reminds him of them. It is advisable to get rid of lighters and all cigarettes in the house, and remove the ashtray. Self-persuasion becomes effective again. Appetite increases, but problems with digestion and bowel movements are possible.

Changes in the body when quitting smoking continue for up to a year, and full recovery perhaps only after a few years. In the first month of quitting smoking, the bronchial mucosa, which was damaged by nicotine smoke, is renewed. The condition of blood vessels improves. Immunity is significantly increased, which is associated with increased blood supply to cells. Leukocytes and platelets are quickly renewed, but the restoration of red blood cells is slower.

Epithelial cells are renewed, due to which the skin looks fresh, a natural flush of the face appears, and the yellow tint completely disappears. The patient has a better sense of food taste and smell. Many former smokers find cigarette smoke disgusting. Appetite increases sharply, which can cause weight gain. Since the functions of the gastrointestinal tract have not yet fully recovered during this period, it is possible frequent pain in the abdominal area. Moreover, bowel movements are also unstable - diarrhea and constipation can alternate with each other. By the end of the first month, the cough with mucus practically goes away. Headaches and dizziness continue because the brain is not used to so much oxygen.

The emotional state is still disturbed, so the person needs support from the people around him. The urge to smoke is much less compared to the first week. Breakdowns are possible towards the end of the 2nd and 4th weeks, when a person wants to smoke out of curiosity - to find out whether he likes the taste of cigarettes now.

In the period of 2-6 months, complete renewal of skin cells occurs, so the complexion becomes the same as before smoking. Dryness and itching on the skin disappear. By the end of the 6th month, the lungs are cleared and their volume increases significantly. Liver restoration begins only in the 5th month, but this process proceeds very quickly.

At this time, the body reacts positively to quitting smoking. Appetite is normalized and weight is restored. From the fifth month onwards, you can engage in sports such as swimming or cycling. The mood improves, the person becomes cheerful and cheerful. Life is filled with colorful colors and brings pleasure. The craving for cigarettes is completely absent.

At 7-8 months the teeth become white, yellow plaque disappears (subject to daily cleaning). The vocal cords are restored, so the voice returns to normal and ceases to be hoarse. The perception of tastes and smells becomes more acute. In the 9-11th month, there is no craving for smoking during the day, but many complain that they dream about cigarettes. By the year without tobacco, the body is restored so much that the likelihood of a heart attack and stroke is reduced by 2 times.

But it is necessary to take into account that the less experience a smoker has, the better his body will recover. After all, nicotine can cause changes at the genetic level, as a result of which children may be born with various defects. In women who have previously smoked, pregnancy and childbirth in most cases occur with complications.

What not to do when a person quits smoking

The period of quitting smoking is very difficult for many also because there are a number of restrictions at this time. So, it is not recommended to take any medications for at least 3 months after quitting cigarettes. During menstruation, a woman should not quit smoking, as this can lead to rapid weight gain.

Cannot be eaten harmful products. You need to review your diet to include fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as other components rich in vitamins and minerals. In the first days, it is advisable to eat only dairy and plant foods, which will allow the body to more easily cope with a stressful situation.

How to help the body

To make it easier to quit smoking, you need to help your body. It is necessary to be prepared for the fact that it will be difficult to completely quit smoking on the same day that a person makes the decision to do so. It is important to set a clear goal for which you need to achieve a positive result. Such motivation may be preserving family or health, the desire to conceive a child, play sports and other reasons. This will make it easier to adhere to smoking rules.

In the first month, it is important to give your body as many vitamins as possible. They can come from both food and special medicines. At the pharmacy you can buy vitamin complexes that help rapid recovery(for example, “Aevit” or “Multitabs”).

You should drink a glass every morning warm milk on an empty stomach. But if smoking causes asthma, you can drink it only after consulting an allergist.

To speed up the normalization of skin tone, you can use natural masks for the face based on honey, egg yolk and milk. They are suitable for both women and men who take care of their appearance.

It is also important to monitor your physical activity. Waste and toxins are quickly eliminated from the body, which receives a sufficient amount of physical activity. It is recommended to do exercises in the morning, walk, and breathe fresh air as much as possible.

Of course, quitting smoking is a very difficult and lengthy process. Does not exist simple way, which would help reduce the intensity of symptoms caused by stressful condition body. But the result will not be long in coming, and after a few months the person will feel relief.

Smoking withdrawal syndrome - irresistible craving to nicotine, violating the usual conditions of existence of the body. Manifestations of smoking withdrawal syndrome are called nicotine withdrawal by narcologists.

Smoking tobacco causes psychological and physiological.

When smoking, nicotine affects the nervous system, a person feels a short-term surge of strength. A conditional condition is formed in the nervous system: smoking a cigarette is pleasure. This is how psychological dependence is formed, only the smoker can fight it, no one can do it for him. The conditioned reflex can only be overcome by willpower. You can replace one conditioned reflex with another that is beneficial for health.

Nicotine interferes with many reactions in the body; almost every cell undergoes this interference. Nicotine also affects the peripheral nervous system. With regular smoking, it becomes as if the norm and the person continues to smoke in order to feel normal. Without cigarettes, the body is no longer comfortable. This is how physiological dependence develops.

When quitting nicotine, the entire body, incl. the nervous system needs to learn to function normally without this stimulant. And this will definitely happen, because all processes occurring under the influence of nicotine are unnatural for the body.

Smoking withdrawal syndrome: how to survive?

In the first days of adaptation, a person experiences stress, irritability appears, abrupt change mood, possible insomnia, maybe. As a rule, these symptoms disappear 1-3 months after quitting cigarettes.

The symptoms described above do not appear to everyone when quitting tobacco and not always!

If you experience any significant symptoms during the process of quitting smoking, or you decide that it is not possible to cope without medication, consult a doctor!

Always remember positive consequences when quitting smoking, which will begin to appear almost as soon as you part with the last cigarette you smoked. Here are just a few of them: after a day, the tone of the blood vessels will normalize, breathing will become light and deep, on the 2-3rd day, taste and olfactory sensations are restored, it becomes “light,” performance increases, memory improves, and the mental functions of the brain accelerate. The financial benefits are generally undeniable - you can go on a trip with the money you save!

24.01.2018 Narcologist Mikhail Konstantinovich Transition 3

Withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking

Nicotine withdrawal is caused by a reaction of receptors in the brain to the absence of another dose of nicotine, similar to hangover syndrome. This is due to the fact that nicotine nerve endings getting bigger. Withdrawal syndrome when quitting smoking is most pronounced in the first three weeks and can last up to three months, depending on the individual’s individual characteristics.

Withdrawal also occurs when smoking is stopped after long-term use of hashish or other substances; the symptoms are identical. In a nicotine-dependent body due to lack of acceptance habitual substances the condition worsens.

Withdrawal symptoms are characterized by the appearance of symptoms within 2 hours after the last cigarette, and with each passing hour negative manifestations worsen:

• Uncontrollable craving to smoke.
• When hitting stressful situations a person cannot cope with them and 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.
• Blood pressure drops, the heart beats less often.
• Fatigue.
• Attacks of nausea, constipation and flatulence.
• Muscle spasms.
• Hypesthesia.

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

Duration of depression

The duration of nicotine withdrawal depends on individual characteristics person:

1. age;
2. motivation;
3. length of service;
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. Situations that help overcome this period without physical and emotional stress include:

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

Such circumstances help reduce and overcome nicotine withdrawal, because at this time the brain will be occupied with something else.

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

If we talk about the stages that a former smoker goes through, they are divided into:

First stage

After a couple of hours, a heavy smoker experiences nicotine hunger. After 8 hours, this condition intensifies and the person finds it more difficult to concentrate, becomes angry and irritable, and anxiety appears.

Second phase

Lasts from several weeks to one month and begins after the first days of failure. During this period, a person begins to struggle with himself and rush between choices. healthy image life or taking a dose of nicotine. He becomes unrestrained, even more irritable and emotional. He becomes depressed and has thoughts of committing suicide. In this case, women endure withdrawal symptoms much easier, but are also susceptible to depressive state. Men are found to be depressed and constant stress for any trouble.

Third stage

After a month, relief comes and the symptoms go away. However, the urge 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 of chronic diseases, as well as a decrease in immunity. To facilitate the functioning of processes in the body and prevent disorders, you should take vitamins and other food supplements.

Sometimes you have to experience the craving for smoking for a long period due to changes in the person’s body. A person can break without nicotine for several years; it is important not to break down and wait for this stage to pass.

Treatment of withdrawal

Since after quitting cigarettes they appear lung symptoms nature, treatment of withdrawal symptoms is possible at home. There are two ways to relieve the manifestations of this disease:

• Wait until the symptoms disappear, using all your willpower. This is not a myth, but reality exists more quantity people who passed along this road.
• Remove signs using special means.

To drugs that will help remove unpleasant consequences, caused by the syndrome include: Tabex, Champix, Lobelin, Corrida plus, Zyban, Brizantine. Each medication has its own specifics - it can be an antidepressant or a nicotine replacement agent (available in the form of a patch), as well as tablets, nauseating when using tobacco products.

Their substances are aimed at making withdrawal much easier, without causing cravings.

There are also other methods, for example, folk remedies, which are also aimed at improving the condition and developing an aversion to cigarettes. To do this, use various herbs sold in pharmacies, or collect them yourself. They also use baking soda; to do this, when cravings occur, just put a little on your tongue.

Many foods contain nicotinic acid (B3); doctors recommend consuming it during severe attacks 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 it no more than once a week.
• Peanut. They contain 17 mg, the same amount can be found in other nuts.
• Vegetables. Most of them are found in potatoes, asparagus, carrots, peas and celery.
• Fruits. A nicotinic acid found in melons, bananas, raspberries and mangoes.
• Mushrooms. Add champignons and boletus to your diet.
• Fish. You can cook tuna, halibut and salmon once a week.

It is important to remember that symptoms should be taken seriously. If they get worse and don't go away for a long time, you will need the help of a specialist. You should not wait for them to cause irreversible harm to the body; such signs indicate hidden pathologies. They may relate to disorders of the nervous system or infectious diseases.

How to distract yourself during illness and cope with it?

Withdrawal is difficult, and to cope with the consequences of craving for weed or tobacco and not to relapse will help:

1. First, a 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 a bad habit, and they lead to the desire to smoke weed or inhale cigarette smoke. Therefore, you will need to get rid of the so-called triggers. For example, change the route and walk past the cafe where you usually buy coffee, or avoid going to lunch with smoking colleagues.
2. The state when you really want another dose of nicotine lasts no more than 10 minutes. You will 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 surefire way is to clean the house and get rid of all smoking accessories.
4. To speed up the process, you need to enlist the support of family, friends and colleagues, tell them that you are quitting smoking and ask for help.
5. Usually bad habit appears when a smoker is bored, so you need to find a new hobby and occupy your time. For example, cook dinner, read a book, you can even take a shower when you feel like you might break down.
6. If a person begins to worry in life, he will reach for a cigarette. In this case, you need to have several friends in touch who will listen and reassure you.
7. Find a thing that will symbolize the smoker’s refusal of a bad habit. You should always carry it with you, and if an attack begins, then support the talisman in your hand.
8. You can also mentally distract yourself from desire by imagining pictures where there is no place for nicotine.
9. Since tobacco products cost a lot of money, you can save the amounts that you could spend. Please yourself with something pleasant after saving.
10. Playing sports will help ease the withdrawal process, because... relieves stress and improves mood.
11. Find a former smoker who can tell you how he went through this journey and help him cope with attacks.
12. IN as a last resort, purchase electronic device, which will temporarily replace conventional cigarettes.

Opinions of quitters

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