Fortunately, there are very few stop smoking side effects. In fact, smokers who give up smoking become healthier, and live longer as compared to those who fail to do so. They only have to battle a brief period when they give up smoking -- the period when the withdrawal symptoms are most prominent.
That is the time when they feel anxious, irritable, confused and depressed. They may also suffer from a slower heartbeat, increased appetite and weight gain. However, all these can be controlled through proper counseling and exercises.
The nicotine replacement therapy is especially useful in reducing the side effects. The patient can use nicotine gum, nicotine inhaler or nicotine patch to release small quantities of nicotine in the bloodstream to kill the urge to smoke. This lowers depression, and improves well-being.
They can also use alternative therapies like Tai Chi, Qi Gong or Yoga to relieve stress and make life without cigarettes more bearable. Another possibility is the use of laser therapy that releases endorphins in the blood stream, making an individual feel better.
The smokers who are most prone to side effects are those who suffer from depression. They need extensive counseling and support from family members and friends. Many of them are put on Zyban, an FDA-approved drug that helps to reduce the urge to smoke and is beneficial for treating depression among those who quit.
Most smokers who quit usually put on 5 to 8 pounds of weight. This should not be considered a dangerous side effect. You should remember that smoking is much more injurious to health than gaining weight. You can always reduce weight through exercise, dieting or Yoga. But you can't undo the damage caused by smoking to your health.
Your first priority therefore must be to give up smoking. You will feel better, healthier and more energetic.
