Vaping withdrawal, caused by nicotine addiction, may peak after a few days but could take three to four weeks to resolve entirely.

What is Vaping Withdrawal?

Vaping withdrawal occurs when someone stops using nicotine after becoming addicted to the substance.

Nicotine has a significant effect on the brain, causing boosted mood, reduced depression, reduced irritability, enhanced concentration, reduced appetite, and more. Although these side effects may not seem negative, people may start to worry about the long term health consequences of nicotine use – especially smoking and using tobacco products.

In addition to potential risks of cancer, heart consequences, and lung problems, the body adapts to nicotine’s effects and becomes addicted. In fact, nicotine may be as addictive as alcohol, cocaine, and morphine.

When someone stops using nicotine products such as e-cigarettes, they may experience withdrawal as the brain copes with the sudden lack of the chemical. Because of the significant symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, people may find it hard to stop vaping or

What Are the Symptoms of Nicotine Withdrawal?

The level of addiction will determine how acutely people feel nicotine withdrawal symptoms. For example, someone who vaped all day, every day, may experience withdrawal quicker and with more severity than someone who only used nicotine products occasionally.

Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal in smokers may include:

• Intense nicotine cravings
• Hands and feet tingling
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• Constipation or gas
• Headaches
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Depression
• Fatigue or grogginess
• Weight gain

Some people may experience these symptoms more severely and may even develop complications. Complications may include increased appetite, weight gain, and mood issues.

How Long Does Vaping Withdrawal Last?

Vaping withdrawal symptoms may appear within only 30 minutes of stopping nicotine use, depending on how addicted a person is. Typically, symptoms peak after one to three days and the decrease from there over a longer period of three to four weeks. Although symptoms may continue after this time period, they are primarily psychological rather than physical.

Can Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms Be Managed?

Unfortunately, there is no easy cure for nicotine withdrawal. However, there are ways that people can cope with the symptoms.

First, people may want to speak with their doctor or another health professional who may provide symptom management recommendations.

If individuals are looking for at-home measures, they may want to look towards general wellness. For example, drinking water may help reduce cravings, headaches, sweating, hunger, and fatigue. Similarly, getting a consistent amount of sleep can help people with any grogginess or fatigue they experience during the day. Although quitting nicotine products can lead to increased appetite and subsequent weight gain, eating healthy foods may help combat cravings.

Vaping withdrawal can also lead to emotional side effects. To combat these, consumers may want to look for support with their friends and family. That way, individuals won’t have to go through withdrawal alone. For example, friends and family could help people plan for cravings and stay the course when quitting vaping. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can also help people succeed in quitting nicotine.

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.