Many drugs cause withdrawal symptoms. For example, people who are addicted to alcohol can get the "shakes" if they suddenly stop drinking. They sweat and tremble because their body isn't getting its daily dose of alcohol.

In the same way, if you're addicted to nicotine and you go longer than usual without a cigarette, you get withdrawal symptoms. Here are some of the ways withdrawal can make you feel:

 

 

 

 

 

Source:
Stapleton J.
Cigarette smoking prevalence, cessation and relapse.
Statistical Methods in Medical Research. 1998; 7: 187-203.

 

 

 

 

 

¹

It's these bad feelings that make you reach for another cigarette, because you know that smoking makes them go away. You don't get these feelings while you're having the cigarette or for some time afterward.

But it's important to remember that once you break your addiction, you stop getting withdrawal symptoms. You'll stop needing a cigarette to make yourself feel good. And there are good treatments that can help make you handle the withdrawal symptoms while you're trying to give up. To find out more, see What Treatments Work for Nicotine Addiction?

The information on ConsumerReportsHealth.org should not be viewed as a substitute for a consultation with a medical or health professional. The information is meant to enhance communication with your doctor, not replace it. Consumers Union can not be liable for any loss, injury, or other damages related to your use of this information.

Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.