Why do I feel tired and weak after quitting smoking?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, fatigue and weakness after quitting smoking may be related to nicotine withdrawal symptoms, lifestyle changes, anemia, depression, or chronic fatigue syndrome. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Patients are advised to engage in appropriate exercise, ensure adequate sleep, consume more vegetables and fruits, and develop new hobbies after quitting smoking, which may help alleviate symptoms.

Generally, fatigue and weakness after quitting smoking may be related to nicotine withdrawal symptoms, lifestyle changes, anemia, depression, or chronic fatigue syndrome. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms

Nicotine is a stimulant, and long-term smoking can lead to physical dependence. After quitting smoking, the lack of nicotine stimulation results in decreased dopamine levels in the brain, causing feelings of fatigue and weakness. It is recommended to engage in moderate exercise and divert attention.

2. Lifestyle Changes

After quitting smoking, individuals may feel emptiness or seek substitute behaviors, such as increased food intake or altered sleep patterns, which may contribute to physical fatigue and weakness. It is advisable to maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), balanced nutrition, which helps alleviate these symptoms.

3. Anemia

After quitting smoking, lifestyle changes may lead to malnutrition, triggering anemia. This may result in low hemoglobin levels and cerebral hypoxia, thereby causing fatigue and weakness. Symptoms may include pale complexion, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. It is recommended to take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous fumarate granules, or folic acid tablets under medical supervision.

4. Depression

Emotional instability after quitting smoking may trigger depression, leading to insomnia, low mood, and generalized fatigue. Patients may also experience persistent sadness and loss of interest. It is recommended to use medications such as sertraline hydrochloride tablets, paroxetine hydrochloride tablets, or escitalopram oxalate tablets under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome may be associated with excessive fatigue and mental stress. Poor mood or excessive psychological pressure after quitting smoking may trigger this condition. Symptoms may include memory decline, muscle pain, and joint pain. Treatment may include following a doctor’s advice to use Liuwei Dihuang Pills, Zhibai Dihuang Pills, or venlafaxine hydrochloride sustained-release capsules.

It is recommended that individuals who have quit smoking engage in appropriate physical activity, ensure adequate sleep, consume more vegetables and fruits, and develop new hobbies, all of which can help relieve symptoms.

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