Unable to sleep after quitting smoking
by Laura VDS on Jan 14, 2024
Quitting smoking is one of the best choices you can make for your health. But let's be honest: it's really not easy. Hats off!
Many people notice that they sleep worse after they quit smoking. Your body is working hard to recover. You sleep worse, your stress level is higher and you miss the stimulating effect of nicotine. But don't worry, this is fortunately only temporary. Usually , after a few weeks, you will feel more energetic than ever.
In this article we explain why this happens, how long it lasts and what you can do to get a good night's sleep again.
Can quitting smoking cause me to sleep poorly?
Yes, absolutely. Many people:
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have difficulty falling asleep;
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wake up often at night;
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have vivid dreams or nightmares;
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sleep restlessly or lie there worrying .
Don't worry, these withdrawal symptoms are normal. Your central nervous system is trying to regain balance and you will feel this especially at night.
Why can't I sleep after quitting smoking?
Nicotine is a stimulant . It keeps your body alert, your heart rate up , and your brain more active . When you stop, that constant stimulation goes away . This causes withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, restlessness, and insomnia.
Your body is confused . It got used to the constant flow of nicotine and now it has to relearn how to function without it. That takes time.
How long does anxiety last after quitting smoking?
That inner turmoil, the feeling of being “on edge”, often lasts 1 to 4 weeks . The peak is usually in the first 72 hours . After that, your body slowly starts to recover. After a month, most people feel mentally calmer.
How long does nicotine withdrawal insomnia last?
On average, insomnia from quitting smoking lasts one to three weeks . For some people, it goes away within a few days, for others it takes a bit longer. How long it lasts depends on how much and how long you smoked, and how sensitive your body is to nicotine.
What helps against the urge to smoke?
These tips are not miracle cures, but they can hopefully make quitting smoking a little easier.
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Find distraction : walk, call, listen to music.
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Breathing exercises.
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Cold or fresh : brush your teeth or eat a sugar-free mint.
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Think about why you quit – write it down and read it back.
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Use nicotine replacement: patches or chewing gum.
Why drink a lot of water when quitting smoking?
Water helps your body flush out toxins , including nicotine. It supports your kidneys and liver in clearing out waste. In addition, drinking plenty of water can help with headaches, fatigue and the food cravings you sometimes feel during withdrawal.
What is the hardest day when you quit smoking?
For many people, day 3 is the hardest. That's when the physical withdrawal phase is at its peak : you still want a cigarette, but your body really starts to protest because it's not getting nicotine anymore. The good news: after day 3 it gets easier and easier.
What happens if you don't smoke for 1 week?
After one week there are already some major changes:
- Your lung capacity is better.
- Your heart rate is calmer.
- Your sleep starts to improve .
- You have more energy .
- Your senses (smell and taste) work better.
And the best part? You have reached an important milestone : the first week is often the hardest.
How long does it take for nicotine to leave your body?
Nicotine leaves your body quickly. Within 48 to 72 hours, most of it is gone. But the mental urge to smoke often lasts longer. Keep at it – every day without a cigarette is a victory.
How long does it take for tar to leave your lungs?
Tar leaves your lungs gradually . After a few months, your lungs start to clean themselves and after 1 to 2 years, they are significantly cleaner. But to really fully recover, can take years, depending on how much you smoked.
What helps you sleep deeper?
There are several things you can do:
- Exercise every day , but not too late in the evening.
- Avoid caffeine after 3pm.
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Do a breathing exercise or meditation before going to sleep.
- Avoid using screens in the last hour before bed.
- Drink chamomile tea or another soothing drink.
- Test the GIMMY Deep Sleep Gummies once out.