by L.S. Watts

Created on: March 19, 2009

Smoking is one of the most difficult addictions to quit. However, the long term effects of smoking are some of the most difficult to deal with, too. Aside from the long list of cancers, you are subjecting your lungs to the possibility of bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia, asthma, and much worse. Other possibilities include heart disease, aneurysms, strokes, blood circulation issues, weakening of the bones, various eye diseases, and gum disease. Smoking also has an effect on the reproductive system. It can cause a variety of birth defects and other complications at birth along with impotence in men. This list goes on regarding the health issues by continuing to smoke. Second hand smoke can be just as damaging so you aren't just putting yourself at risk but others as well.

Aside from the mere habit of it, the withdrawal symptoms can get a bit crazy for some. The nicotine receptors in your brain will make their temper tantrum quite known. Physically, you can experience stomach cramps and nausea, headaches, tingling sensations in the hands and feet, sweating, shakes, and even cold like symptoms. Mental symptoms aren't as kind either. These could include irritability, anger, depression, insomnia, unable to think clearly, and increase appetite.

There are a variety of ways that you can quit smoking. Each person is as different as the methods suggested. You need to evaluate what will be best for you and stick with it. The road isn't an easy one but once you have found what works for you, being smoke free is attainable. First, let's attack the addiction itself.

GRADUAL QUITING

Although you don't normally find this suggestion at most websites and doctors' offices this method has help out hundreds of people. Continue smoking for a period of two weeks. Keep a journal with you to write down the date, time, what you were doing or had done prior to lighting up. Most people will notice they have a pattern to their smoking.

Starting in week three, begin to cut out any random smoking. This means cut out any time you just lit a cigarette for no apparent reason. The next week, cut out one or two patterns to your smoking. This means if you always have to have a cigarette while driving or perhaps right after you eat, make yourself actively resist the urge to light up. Each week pick one pattern to cut out of your smoking routine.

This method allows you to wean the nicotine receptors in your brain. It makes withdrawal symptoms less violent and more manageable. Although this isn't the healthiest

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