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Warning-sign checks

Nicotine withdrawal: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help now if you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, feel unable to keep yourself safe, or develop severe confusion or behaviour that is very unlike you.

    Chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or signs of a stroke also require emergency care; these are not expected nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a clinician promptly if you develop severe or persistent depression, anxiety, agitation, confusion, or sleep problems.

    You should also seek assessment for symptoms that are unusual for withdrawal, such as a persistent fever, worsening breathlessness, fainting, or ongoing chest discomfort.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine medical or pharmacy support if withdrawal is difficult to manage, previous attempts have repeatedly ended because of symptoms, or you want help choosing a stop-smoking treatment.

    It is also sensible to seek advice if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, younger than 18, have seizures, have significant kidney problems, or take medicines that may be affected by stopping smoking.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Nicotine withdrawal. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.