During nicotine withdrawal, the body and psyche react with unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These occur in certain phases that can be divided. This is referred to as the addiction curve during nicotine withdrawal.
For a successful withdrawal, it is advisable to look at the symptoms of the individual phases to prepare mentally. We provide you with a guide on the nicotine addiction curve and explain how to best deal with the symptoms.
What is the addiction curve?
A Nicotine addiction arises when nicotine-containing products are consumed regularly and the body develops a dependency. Nicotine is a highly addictive neurotoxin that causes some changes in the body. For example, the body releases more dopamine through intake, a hormone responsible for feelings of happiness and relaxation.
Due to increased dopamine production, the brain forms more receptors to absorb the dopamine. If nicotine is suddenly stopped, this reduces dopamine production and the receptors remain empty. In this case, not only does the reward effect cease, but negative reactions such as increased irritability or depression can occur.
If you smoke regularly, your brain continuously forms new receptors. This means the amount of nicotine must be increased continuously to achieve the same effect as before. The body becomes dependent on nicotine and sends signals to ensure that the supply continues.
These signals and reactions of the body after withdrawal are shown in the nicotine addiction curve. It illustrates when the body reacts with which symptoms to the withdrawal. The reactions become particularly strong when the Smoking cessation is suddenly undertaken after years of smoking.
In which phases does it take place?
The addiction curve in Nicotine withdrawal usually takes place in five phases. How strong the symptoms are in these phases depends on the duration of nicotine intake and your body's tolerance. We have summarized the phases for you:
First phase: One week after nicotine withdrawal
The first week after nicotine withdrawal is the hardest for most, as the body reacts with severe symptoms. Physical reactions include dizziness, circulatory problems, concentration difficulties, and sweating. Psychologically, the brain reacts with nervousness and increased irritability.
Second phase: Two to four weeks after nicotine withdrawal
The physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms already subside from the second week, but the craving for nicotine becomes stronger. Many people assume that the withdrawal is over from the third week and reward themselves with a cigarette or other products. Try not to give in during this phase.
Third phase: Four to ten weeks after nicotine withdrawal
From the fourth week, physical symptoms decrease significantly, but mood swings and sudden addiction attacks can occur. So prepare for these.
Fourth phase: More than ten weeks
By the eleventh week, withdrawal symptoms should be completely gone. However, there is still a risk of relapse!
Fifth phase: After six months
Although many assume after three weeks that the addiction is overcome, it is only after six months that there is certainty that nicotine is a thing of the past. During this phase, addiction attacks should no longer occur.
How can you prepare for the different phases?
Withdrawal symptoms during nicotine withdrawal cannot be avoided, but you can prepare for the addiction curve to alleviate the symptoms somewhat. Instead of cold turkey, many succeed with a gradual withdrawal better, especially for long-term smokers. The gradual withdrawal aims to slowly reduce the nicotine amount with nicotine patches or nicotine gum. Another option is Chewing Bags, which can also reduce the amount of nicotine. Chewing Bags are available in both mild and strong versions. They come in different flavors so there is something for every taste.
These tips will help you prepare:
● Make sure to have enough water and sugar-free candies or chewing gum if your mouth gets bored.
● Meditation, autogenic training, and relaxation exercises help reduce nervousness and irritability.
● Be prepared for a significant decrease in your concentration, especially in the first week. Break large tasks into small steps to make them easier to manage. Additionally, to-do lists can be helpful.
● Find something to distract yourself. Ideally a new hobby or sports. Sports also help to suppress cravings.
Conclusion
The addiction curve during nicotine withdrawal describes the individual phases the body goes through after quitting smoking. These are characterized by different physical and psychological symptoms. Usually, physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or concentration problems occur.
Psychological symptoms include depression, nervousness, or irritability. These symptoms cannot be avoided, but you can prepare for them. Make sure to have enough fluids and chewing gum to keep your mouth busy. A new hobby can help you think about other things and distract you from the addiction. Ensure more relaxation through autogenic training or yoga.
If cold turkey is too difficult, you can try a gradual withdrawal instead.
