Unfortunately, thanks to the addictive qualities of nicotine, stopping the habit of smoking cigarettes can be especially hard for some people. Some lack the motivation, others easily relapse thanks to stress or other factors and then have to restart the whole quitting process again. But for the most part many probably do not understand just how much healthier their lives would be if they learned how to stop smoking, for good. Unfortunately, you should note that there are some setbacks that may occur when quitting, most notably these 4 effects of withdrawal. Effects of Withdrawal. Digestive You may experience heartburn, indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea. Symptoms usually get worse before they begin to improve. Respiratory Sinus congestion, coughing, phlegm and a slight hoarseness can occur. Circulatory You may feel dizzy, stiff, or even tingling in your toes and fingers. Sleep You may experience insomnia as well. I0000ksRdcHywCEc/s/750' alt='Best Way To Smoke Crack With A Weed Pipe' title='Best Way To Smoke Crack With A Weed Pipe' />These effects are a direct result of your body repairing the damage that smoking has caused, and starting to smoke again will only set back your plans of a healthy lifestyle. If you fight through your withdraw stage which should only last 3 4 weeks you will see immediate and long lasting health improvements. To give you an idea of the benefits that you will experience once you quit smoking, the American Cancer Society has created a timeline that describes what you can look forward to in your new, smoke free life. In addition to this, its a great guide to discover what happens to your body once you quit smoking. Health Benefits Once You Quit Smoking. After 2. 0 minutes your blood pressure will drop back down to normal. After 8 hours the carbon monoxide levels in your blood stream will drop by half, and oxygen levels will return to normal. After 4. 8 hours your chance of having a heart attack will have decreased. All nicotine will have left your body. Your sense of taste and smell will return to a normal level. After 7. 2 hours your bronchial tubes will relax, and your energy levels will increase. After 2 weeks your circulation will increase, and it will continue to improve for the next 1. After 3 to 9 months coughing, wheezing and breathing problems will dissipate as your lung capacity improves by 1. After 1 year your risk of having a heart attack will have dropped by half. After 5 years your risk of having a stroke returns to that of a non smoker. After 1. 0 years your risk of lung cancer will have returned to that of a non smoker. After 1. 5 years your risk of heart attack will have returned to that of a non smoker. The Takeaway. Breaking any habit can be difficult. If you want to quit smoking youll have to be completely resolute in your new routine, and need to be strong when it matters most especially when you experience strong cravings, or even if you happen to relapse. Long time smokers will battle a stronger addiction than others, but the immediate and long term benefits are more than worth the trouble. Image by meddygarnet.