When you think of side effects, it brings to mind things such as vomiting and other gastric problems, sleepiness, dizziness and other physical manifestations associated with taking certain drugs. Quitting smoking doesn't inspire what we commonly think of as side effects, but there are definitely side effects when you quit smoking, and not all of them are bad, even though that's what many people think when they hear the phrase "quit smoking side effects."

I can't deny that there are negative side effects when you quit smoking. Cigarette smoking is a powerful addiction that affects your mind, emotions, behavior and lifestyle, and which experts agree is usually a habit harder to overcome than heroin addiction. Being informed of what side effects you may experience when you quit smoking lets you know what to expect, and to prepare to deal with them so you're less likely to fall off the "I quit!" wagon. Not everyone experiences side effects when they quit smoking, and some go through only mild withdrawal symptoms, but it's better to be prepared for the worst so you aren't caught off guard by side effects when you quit smoking.


Mays people give up quitting because they find the symptoms too strong to deal with, or are caught off guard. Believe it or not, these symptoms are good news, signs that your body is purging the harmful chemicals left in your body from cigarette smoking.

Here are some additional quit smoking side effects - While they don't occur in everyone, you should expect to experience at least 1 or 2 of the symptoms from this list.

Dizziness. Your body has an increase in oxygen levels due to your lungs now not being filled with smoke. For the first one to five days be aware of the possibility of becoming dizzy when moving too fast.

Coughing, mucous, phlegm: During the first week days your body is clearing itself of a buildup of mucous. Your nose may run and you may have coughing spells. Drink plenty of fluids to facilitate the process.

Sore throat: Again, the body is ridding itself of built up nicotine and tar. Suck on sweets, drink hot tea with honey (decaffeinated), and use throat lozenges or spray. This typically lasts one to five days.

Gaseous Stomach and Constipation: During the first one to two weeks your bowels may have an increase in gas and a decrease in bowel movements. Adding fiber to your diet and increasing your water intake should help to relieve the problem.

Headaches: During the first one to two weeks you may experience headaches. This is due to an increase in blood flow which contains more oxygen to the back of the brain. Drink lots of fluids and do relaxation exercises. If necessary use over the counter medications in moderation.

Irritability/Anxiety: The first two to four weeks should be the most difficult in terms of frustration, anxiety, inability to concentrate and restlessness. Your body is desperately seeking a nicotine fix. Try meditation, relaxation techniques or any other activities that keep you from focusing on your craving for nicotine.

Fatigue: Nicotine is a stimulant. During the first two to four weeks you may feel tired due to your metabolic rate dropping back to normal. Without nicotine your metabolic rate drops down to normal. Don't panic, your body will adjust in a few weeks. In the meantime, don't overexert yourself.

I know what you may be thinking... Wow! With side effects like those, why bother quitting smoking? While this may seem to be a logical way of looking at the situation, it's important to bear in mind that if you find these mild symptoms to be unpleasant, imagine dealing with the debilitating disorders that smoking is sure to bring if you don't quit soon.

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