When people quit, their bodies immediately begin the healing process from the damage done by nicotine addiction. It will heal on its own, but it needs some time. Some effects will be noticed sooner than others. Freer breathing and refreshed senses of smell and taste are among the first to return. Other effects take longer. Withdrawal symptoms that may take weeks or as many as six months to subside include:

It is important to remember that these symptoms will most likely peak in the first three days, then gradually fade. It is not uncommon, however, for former smokers to experience cravings for cigarettes for months, if not years, after quitting. These cravings are of minor discomfort, however, when compared to the rigors of chemotherapy for lung cancer or open-heart surgery.