Causes and risk factors
Nicotine is found in tobacco. Any person habituated to chewing or smoking tobacco will experience nicotine withdrawal if he quits suddenly or greatly reduces his intake.
Clinical presentation
Symptoms may begin 2-3 hours after the last dose of nicotine with a peak at 48 hours and may persist for 3-4 weeks. They include intense craving for nicotine, headaches, feeling tense, restless, or frustrated. Increase in appetite leading to weight gain. There is anxiety, depression, sadness. Anger and irritability is seen. Difficulty in concentrating is experienced. There is inability to cope. Patient complains of sleep disturbances and nightmares. There is tingling in the hands and feet. There may be profuse sweating.
Investigations
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis.
Treatment
Nicotine replacement therapy includes low doses of nicotine in the form of chewing gum, lozenges, skin patches, inhalers, etc. These are prescribed to ease the withdrawal symptoms. Smoking cessation programs are offered by several institutions and hospitals to provide the necessary support and methodology to quit nicotine. Certain medications will also help in managing the condition.
Complications
Depression may be experienced by some people, but it is usually reversible.
When to Contact a Doctor
One must consult a doctor if one wishes to quit smoking tobacco.
Prevention
Using nicotine replacement therapy and other medications recommended by the doctor will help to minimize the withdrawal symptoms.
Systems involved
CNS, GIT, respiratory system, circulatory system
Organs involved
Brain, lungs, stomach
