How Quit Smoking After 8 Hours Can Benefit Your Body

As you set your quit date, you puff your last cigarette with a determination to get rid of the smoking habit for good.  The interesting part during the process of quitting smoking is the events that happen during and after 8 hours. Let's look at bright sides first.

After 8 hours, the carbon monoxide and nicotine levels in your blood drop by 50%. The reduction of carbon monoxide causes the oxygen levels in your blood increases until they reach the normal level. As a result, your blood circulation begins to improve. You start to feel healthier than before. You also breathe easier because the mucus begins to clear out the lungs.

Now the worst part is that during the 8 hours, you may be craving crazily for cigarettes. During that time, you can only think of smoking and nothing else. Some smokers testified that the first 8 hours is the worst experience they ever had. The withdrawal symptoms start to torment you during this critical period. For example, your senses become more sensitive. Your ears can pick up sounds as soft as the computer fans. The colors become brighter. This acute sensitivity can irritate your terribly.

To overcome the withdrawal symptoms during the first 8 hours, here are some suggestions.

• If you have sleeping problems, avoid coffee, tea, or soda with caffeine after 6:00 pm. Use relaxation or meditation techniques to help you to sleep.
• For stress and irritability, instead of thinking of cigarettes, take a walk, play some sports, soak in a hot bath, and listen to soft music. You can also try yoga.
• Usually your mouth will be dry during this period. Drink a glass of water to overcome your dry mouth. If you cough probably because of sore throat, drink a cup of warm herbal tea or suck some cough drops.

When you decide to have your last smoke, remember that you need endure the first 8 hours. Focus on the health benefits that you will receive instead of dwelling on the effects of the withdrawal symptoms.