AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on tobacco addiction, and resources for quitting.
Information on current cancer research and the health effects of tobacco.
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
The best place to start is 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Expert: Michael Dean Date: 11/26/2007 Subject: trying to quit smoking
Question hi,
question, i am trying to quit smoking cold turkey, i smoke 1/2 to a full a pack per day for 16 years im 31 now. I am looking to just stop smoking in the morning, mainly because i feel like garbage, have no energy, i want to know how long it will take to stop the urges of nicotine??
Answer Dear Mathew,
You are making a great decision. How long it will take really depends on the person. Some people give it up and never look back. Others take much longer to completely recover.
I think it is actually hard to say how long physical withdrawal lasts, and it is different in different people. Most symptoms are gone in 2-3 days and some last 2-3 weeks.
But it is clear that the psychological part is the hardest for most people.
I'd suggest you read "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and you might find it useful. You should also call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.
If it is tough, go to your doctor and ask about Chantix and bupropion (Zyban). This combination works very well for many smokers.
Let me know how it goes. I am glad to help as you move forward.
Mike
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
