Quitter's Flu

Definition: Quitter's flu is a slang term used to describe the flu-like symptoms that nicotine withdrawal can sometimes produce.

Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal can include:

• Cravings to smoke
• Irritability, crankiness
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Inability to concentrate
• Headache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Constipation, gas, stomach pain
• Dry mouth
• Sore tongue and/or gums
• Postnasal drip
• Tightness in the chest

Also known as smoker's flu, quitter's flu is not a real sickness; it refers only to physical sensations we experience while detoxing from nicotine and the chemicals in tobacco that can mimic illness.

See also: All About Nicotine Withdrawal