Sometimes, quitting smoking with no help can seem impossible. Only super-humans can quit smoking cold turkey, surely? It’s ok if you can’t quit cold turkey; the important thing is that you’re trying to quit. Let’s take a look at the different quitting aids available for you and which kind you should choose:
Nicotine Patches
A nicotine patch is usually applied to the arm and will provide you with a steady flow of nicotine throughout the day. You usually apply it in the morning, and then take it off before bed. However, you can find patches that you leave on for a full 24 hours. This is a good idea if you don’t really want to think about getting your nicotine fix.
Nicotine Gum
Nicotine gum is reported to have a funny taste by some, but you get used to it. They say you should chew it slowly, and once the flavour is released you can park the gum in your cheek to get the nicotine into your bloodstream quicker. If you don’t mind chewing gum to get your fix, then this can be a good choice.
An Inhalator
Inhalers are small plastic tubes that you puff on when you need a nicotine fix. They aren’t similar to an e-cigarette, as they don’t give you the feel of smoking a cigarette. Plus, the inhalator is available on the NHS.
An E-cigarette
E-cigarettes are very popular smoking aid, as they still allow you to do something with your hands and mouth, and give you the feeling that you’re really smoking due to the design. They have been successful in helping many people quit real cigarettes for good. The electronic cigarettes from LastCig.co.uk are worth a look if you like the sound of this option.
A Nasal Spray
Nasal sprays are usually the strongest form of smoking aid you can get, so if you’re a heavy smoker who still craves when using other smoking aids, you should try a nasal spray. They can sometimes irritate the nose at first, but you should get used to it after a few days.
A Microtab
A microtab is like a very small tablet, although you don’t swallow or chew it. You simply place it underneath your tongue, and the tab slowly dissolves into the lining of your mouth and into your bloodstream to give you your nicotine fix.
Lozenges
You can have up to 15 lozenges a day for the first few weeks when you quit, after which a decreased dosage is recommended.
Although these treatments can be a great help when trying to quit, you need to have the right attitude and determination to succeed. Don’t worry if you have a slip up, just go straight back to quitting afterwards. Similar to when a person tries to take up a healthier lifestyle, but have a little treat – would it make sense for them to give up completely? No, so you shouldn’t either! Select the best quitting aid for you, and even try multiple aids if you need to. Good luck!
