Don’t Know What to Expect When You Quit Smoking?

Do you smoke and are planning to quit? Do you find yourself in a repeated stop-start smoking cycle? If yes, remember, the journey to quit smoking isn’t easy. If you live or work in Wandsworth and are aged 15 or more, it is prudent to learn about the challenges and the rewards.  
In this guide to Wandsworth residents, we break down for you what happens when you stop smoking and a few tips to stay on track. We will also help you understand why you should use our stop-smoking services in Wandsworth.

Repercussions of Quitting Smoking

Overcoming hurdles in the first 72 hours

• Note that the first few days after you have quit smoking are the most difficult. When your body withdraws itself from nicotine, nicotine levels drop in your body. You thus witness withdrawal symptoms, like irritability, headaches, anxiety, and cravings.
• You may cough more than usual, as your lungs have begun to clear out tar and toxins.
• Once two days are complete, nicotine levels start to clear from your system. You experience an improved sense of smell and taste.

Witnessing physical and emotional changes from week one to month one

• You may expect insomnia, mood changes, and trouble focusing with your brain adjusting to functioning without nicotine.
• Your lungs function better. You can hence enjoy walking or jogging in Wandsworth parks.
• You may feel more hunger pangs after you have stopped smoking. Consume healthy foods to prevent gaining weight.

Pro Tip

Plan to make the most of local resources, such as NHS stop-smoking services or stop-smoking services in Wandsworth for free advice, support, and access to stop-smoking medications. 

Building Momentum During the First 3 Months

• Between one and three months, nicotine receptors in your brain minimise. Besides, cravings become less frequent and less forceful.
• You feel more energetic due to improved blood flow. This is an ideal time to start exercising. You may join a local walking group to become physically active.
• Due to your learning coping strategies and developing a new routine, you grow more balanced mentally.

Challenges and Tips

• Daily stressors, social situations, or monotony in your life may lure you to relapse. Be ready with your coping tricks, like deep breathing, exercising, or calling a friend for help.
• Being an ex-smoker, you are likely to gain weight. Healthy eating and daily physical activity can keep this in check.

Choosing Stop Smoking Services in Wandsworth

You are not alone in quitting smoking. Our team of professionals is there to offer you regular support and information. If you use a local stop-smoking service, you are four times more likely to quit smoking for good. 

In your journey to a smoke-free life, our services to Wandsworth residents include:

• Tailored one-to-one support, in-person or over the call, from a friendly and experienced Stop Smoking Advisor.
• Routine carbon monoxide checks.
• Tips on managing withdrawal symptoms and coping with smoking triggers.
• Precise information on what to expect when trying to quit smoking and how to deal with tough situations.
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is free of charge, inclusive of patches, oral sprays, lozenges, and nasal sprays.
• Easy access to stop-smoking medications and guidance on their use, such as using Zyban.
• Swap to Stop Scheme: access to a vape kit free of cost and vape supplies for up to 12 weeks for adults of 18 years and older only. 

It’s All Worth It 

Quitting smoking is indeed challenging. But the benefits far outweigh the trials. You feel healthier, breathe easier, mitigate the risks of any serious illnesses, and have more time and energy to pursue your interests. Stop-smoking services in Wandsworth and NHS Smokefree are, of course, there to support you and reclaim your health. Contact our stop-smoking team today!