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Are Lack Of Concentration And Cough, Withdrawal Symptoms Of Quitting Smoking?

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Posted on Thu, 20 Aug 2015
Question: Hello, I quit smoking say 3 weeks ago. While I wasn't a heavy smoker, I used to smoke about 2-3 cigarettes a day. When I decided to quit, I did so overnight. I have not experienced any urge to smoke at all. However, I do experience a few conditions and I want to know if it's normal.
1) My concentration seems to have gone down
2) I cough badly in the mornings with running nose continuing until the noon. Then I am okay for the rest of the day. However, the symptoms appear back again after midnight until next morning and the cycle repeats.
3) I feel my sleep cycle is slightly altered. I feel a lack of concentration and a sober state throughout the day.

Please advise if this is normal.
Thanks,
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chintan Solanki (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
lack of concentration is likely due to nicotine withdrawal

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mr. XXXXXXX

Thanks for writing to us. I want to congratulate you for stopping smoking. It is very good decision for your health as well as for your family.

2-3 cigarettes per day is not at all heavy intake. If you have smoked more than 6 months lack of concentration is one of the withdrawal symptoms. It may last up to 6 weeks to 6 months without treatment.


Alteration in sleep cycle is likely due to lack of concentration in daytime.

Cough and running nose are not likely withdrawal symptoms. Proper examination by doctor (preferably by ENT specialist) is needed to search for cause.

Lack of concentration can be treated by bupropion on nicotine replacement therapy. You need to consult psychiatrist for the same.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further.

Dr.Chintan Solanki.
Note: In case of any other concern or query related to prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, or the recovery of persons with the any type of addiction or substance use, follow up with our Addiction Medicine Specialist. Click here to book a consultation now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chintan Solanki

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 2406 Questions

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Are Lack Of Concentration And Cough, Withdrawal Symptoms Of Quitting Smoking?

Brief Answer: lack of concentration is likely due to nicotine withdrawal Detailed Answer: Hello Mr. XXXXXXX Thanks for writing to us. I want to congratulate you for stopping smoking. It is very good decision for your health as well as for your family. 2-3 cigarettes per day is not at all heavy intake. If you have smoked more than 6 months lack of concentration is one of the withdrawal symptoms. It may last up to 6 weeks to 6 months without treatment. Alteration in sleep cycle is likely due to lack of concentration in daytime. Cough and running nose are not likely withdrawal symptoms. Proper examination by doctor (preferably by ENT specialist) is needed to search for cause. Lack of concentration can be treated by bupropion on nicotine replacement therapy. You need to consult psychiatrist for the same. Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further. Dr.Chintan Solanki.