Members,
A member e-mailed me and asked if feeling "spaced out" after one's quit is normal? This indistinct but annoying symptom is linked with carbon monoxide withdrawal. It gives a sense of being in "another dimension." It can include changes in distance and space perception, a floating feeling, and a total lack of concentration. Remember that carbon monoxide is a deadly poison - it is a good thing to get out of your system.
How long will this last? The first few weeks after quitting.
Tips to help: Plan your workload to account for your temporary lack of concentration. Avoid additional stress during the first few weeks.
If you have a symptom that persists or seems worse than you expected, you should immediately consult a doctor. Its possible that your smoking has been masking symptoms of some illness, and when you stop smoking the symptoms abruptly become noticeable.
Stay Strong!
Samantha, Bilingual Health Educator
