Along with constipation, nausea and gas aresymptoms of withdrawalfrom tobacco products.
Fortunately, digestive issues usually resolve themselves in a matter of weeks.
While they are unpleasant, don’t let the discomforts derail your quit program.
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Remember that you are doing the absolute best thing you could for your health and well-being by quitting tobacco.
Don’t let temporary discomforts deter you.
Better days are coming, and they are not far off.
If this happens, contact a healthcare provider.
These include nicotine withdrawal and other changes in your diet, activity, and stress levels.
Nicotine Withdrawal
Nicotine is the addictive substance in cigarettes that makes quitting so challenging.
It also leads to withdrawal symptoms when you stop smoking, including constipation.
How Long Will Constipation Last?
Because constipation is connected to nicotine withdrawal, it may gradually subside along with otherwithdrawal symptomsafter a few weeks.
Often, the foods that you choose might leave your daily diet less than balanced.
This can then lead to digestive disturbances.
Take a good look at what you’ve beeneating since you quit smoking.
Work on adding more high-fiber choices to your daily diet, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Butsmoking cessation may increase the stressand anxiety you feel in the short term.
Emotional stresscan have physical effects on your body, including digestion.
If this strikes a chord with you, try incorporating some tension-tamers into your daily routine.
Reducing your stress may then help keep your bowel movements regular.
You might feel tired and cranky, and often, less active than normal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Constipation usually gradually decreases within a few weeks.
If your symptoms do not begin to improve or are severe, you should talk to your healthcare provider.
Dietary fiber, exercise, and hydration can help.
Over-the-counter fiber supplements or laxatives may also provide relief.
Your doctor may also be able to prescribe medications that ease constipation.
You should not rely on the patch for constipation relief, however.
Changes in diet, activity level and stress can also contribute to problems with constipation.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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Johns Hopkins Medicine.Constipation.
2011;11:15. doi:10.1186/1472-6904-11-15.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How much physical activity do adults need?
