What are common withdrawal symptoms after quitting smoking?

When someone quits smoking, they often experience a range of withdrawal symptoms due to the body adjusting to the absence of nicotine. Irritability and anxiety are among the most common symptoms reported by individuals going through this process. Nicotine has a stimulating effect on the brain's reward pathways, and its absence can lead to feelings of frustration, restlessness, and heightened anxiety. These emotional symptoms are significant because they can contribute to cravings and increase the likelihood of relapse if not managed effectively.

The other options do not accurately reflect the typical experiences of someone quitting smoking. For example, fatigue and euphoria might not be directly related to nicotine withdrawal, as euphoria is not a common withdrawal symptom and may suggest other factors. Increased energy and alertness are often not felt immediately as the body's systems are adjusting, while immediate cravings are indeed a symptom; they do not encompass the broader range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as irritability and anxiety, faced by individuals during withdrawal. Acknowledging and addressing the emotional components of quitting smoking is essential for long-term success in smoking cessation.