quit smoking

[Brandilla]

I quit smoking 5 days ago and I am feeling like my breathing is somewhat shallow. Also, my lungs feel like they are being squeezed, I dont really know any other way to describe it. Also, in my upper back area, pretty much opposite my lungs, hurts as well. Is all of these symptoms normal for quitting smoking? I havent started the horrible coughing stage yet but my lungs do feel like stuff is loosening in them. Sort of like bronchitis. Does anyone know when that will start as well?

Thanks,

[Michaelccc]

it doesnt sound normal to me. but hey i'm not a doctor. you should definetly ask the doc this right away. and congrats on quiting smoking. i wish i could do the same. you'll feel like a million bucks in a few months i'm sure

[Brandilla]

No, I havent talked to my dr. yet. I have an appt. with him on Tues. for something unrelated. I am just curious as to if it is normal and how long it lasts.

[Michaelccc]

did you ask your doc about this yet? what did he/she say?  

[Brandilla]

just wanted to add to my last comment....

It feels like I cannot get a comlpete breath of air. I am kinda scared about it.

[Brandilla]

Well, I am on day 8 of no smoking. And a lot of the symptoms have lessened excpet for the shortness of breath. It is not constant but I usually get it once a day but it lasts for hours. When does that go away? It is really starting to freak me out!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

These are all nicotine withdrawal symptoms. "Quitter's flu" is a term used to describe this phase of smoking cessation because nicotine withdrawal symptoms often mimic a cold or a mild case of the flu.

You can get rid of these symptoms by getting more rest, exercising, distracting yourself. Call a friend or go for a walk.

You can drink water or any juice Consider adding a good multivitamin to your daily regimen for the first few months after quitting tobacco. It will help offset nicotine withdrawal symptoms and replenish depleted nutrients to fight off cravings.

I hope I have provided you with sufficient information. If you need any more then pls post us.

Take care and God bless.

[Brandilla]

Thanks suzy499, and congrats on quitting.
I think that I am scared that what I am feeling is not  normal. I am a little paranoid about it because I am home alone with my son and dont want anything to happen. Just a paranoid mom I guess.

[suzy499]

Hi Brandilla:
I'm no physician, but I did quit smoking Feb of 2007 and have been free from cigs since that time.  Your body is addicted still to the nicotine so you are probably going to feel all kinds of changes going on.  Don't give up!  And also, you may never have the terrible coughing thing.  I never did.  I was just happy to STOP coughing all the time.  I wish you the best of luck!  Suzy499

[Brandilla]

I also forgot to add that sometimes I do feel somewhat lightheaded, or dizzy. Is that normal as well?

Thanks