Nicotine Withdrawal - How Long Does It Last?

If you're considering quitting smoking, you've likely asked yourself 'how long does nicotine withdrawal last?' The length of time one experiences nicotine withdrawal varies with each individual. Also, each symptom of nicotine withdrawal, whether it is physical or psychological, has a different length and severity in which the person will experience the withdrawal.

Physical symptoms such as fever, sweating, aches and pains can last up to 12 weeks, but will typically peak 48 hours after the smoker has refrained from smoking. Out of all the physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, these are the most uncomfortable and are usually the reason why smokers decide not to quit. Other symptoms such as sore throat, coughing and shortness of breath are widely common and may last up to 4 weeks. The reason for this is that, while smoking, mucus and tar builds up in the smokers lungs. The body's natural reflex to expel the build up in the lungs is to cough, however excessive coughing most likely leads to sore throat and can also irritate the airways making them become inflamed and cause shortness of breath. For these physical symptoms to completely disappear, it will sometimes take the smoker 6 months of being smoke-free.

Emotional and psychological symptoms carry their own level of discomfort. Along with the physical symptoms, someone who has recently quit smoking may experience depression, anxiety, and irritability. These symptoms of nicotine withdrawal most likely stem from the psychological connection made while the smoker indulged in their habit. Most people who smoke will do so relieve the feelings of depression and anxiety. While smoking may temporarily relieve these negative feelings, the underlying cause of their depression and anxiety remained. When the option to smoke for relief is no longer available, these feelings surface and, if not dealt with properly, may cause irritability. The length in which these symptoms last can be indefinite, as the source of the problem has not been identified and/or treated.

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