Walgreens-OptionCare > Respiratory > Common breathing problems > COPD

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We know that smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products is harmful and can cause lung cancer, heart disease and respiratory problems. Quitting smoking is an important undertaking that takes motivation, planning and will power.

A number of nicotine replacement aids (patches, gum, inhalers, sprays and medications) are available to help smokers quit. Some are available only by prescription.

In addition, support groups, exercise programs, hypnosis, yoga, journaling your progress and feelings and having a smoking cessation buddy have helped many people through the quitting process. You aren't alone on the journey to becoming smoke-free. Find resources to assist you in quitting.

If you are still smoking and want to stop, start now:

• Explore the reasons why you smoke.
• Review the reasons you want to quit and plan ways to cope with the urges.
• Set your "Quit Date," and make a plan to prepare yourself and others around you (so they can lend support).
• Plan your first few days as a nonsmoker and what it may take to help you stay on track.

It is important to know what your triggers are -- situations when you want to smoke -- so you can plan ways to avoid smoking:

• If you usually smoke when you talk on the phone, hold a straw or try doodling instead.
• If you usually smoke while you drive, chew sugarless gum or munch on carrot sticks.
• If being around other smokers makes you want to light up, avoid being around other smokers and locations that permit smoking, such as bars/restaurants. Stick to smoking-restricted places and spend time with nonsmokers, especially when you are first starting to quit.
• If feeling tense or stressed makes you want to smoke, get some exercise, practice controlled breathing, call a friend, soak in a tub.
• If you're accustomed to smoking as soon as you wake up in the morning, change the order of your activities: Go for an early-morning walk, go right into the shower, eat your breakfast.
• If you reach for a cigarette whenever you feel sad or depressed, have other activities to do that may lighten your mood: Exercise, work on a hobby, play with a pet, do volunteer work.

Recognizing the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal also can help you get through urges and cravings. Avoid immediately reacting to the urge to smoke. Keep the following withdrawal symptoms in mind:

• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling more tired
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as gas or constipation
• Coughing or nasal drip
• Hunger, with stronger senses of taste and smell