You may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to quit smoking. This affects around 50% of all smokers and occurs regardless of how much you have smoked in the past.
Some withdrawal symptoms can be similar to symptoms that occur during an MS relapse. If you don’t feel well while quitting smoking, it can be helpful to distinguish whether your symptoms are more likely to be a sign of an MS relapse or due to nicotine withdrawal.
On the one hand, there are symptoms that can occur during nicotine withdrawal that are atypical for MS. These include insomnia, restlessness, irritability and anger, increased appetite, and weight gain. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms are strongest in the first few days and usually subside almost completely within 3-4 weeks.
On the other hand, there are symptoms that are typical of an MS relapse and not typical of nicotine withdrawal. These include vision problems, sensory disturbances of the skin, paralysis, coordination disorders, speech problems, pain and incontinence.
Finally, there are symptoms that can occur with both nicotine withdrawal and an MS relapse. These include difficulties with concentration and attention, depression and mood, a general feeling of being unwell and exhaustion.
Being aware of these differences can help make quitting smoking as stress-free as possible. However, if you experience symptoms that you are unsure about, don’t hesitate to seek help.
