Why would people consider "cold turkey" to quickly quit material laws?
"Cold turkey" is a quick solution for quitting smoking, alcohol or drugs. Instead of gradually reducing this substance, it is better to stop taking it immediately. This term comes from people who sometimes get goose bumps after quitting smoking, which looks like the skin of "cold turkey" in the refrigerator.
Some people choose cold turkey because they think it is easier to stop taking it immediately than to gradually reduce it. They believe that as long as they get rid of it, they will not want to use this drug or tobacco product that much.
But cold turkey may not be the most effective way to quit smoking—especially for people who rely on certain substances. Quitting smoking too quickly can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and a strong urge to start using the substance again.
What to expect
There are good and bad studies on smoking cessation, but some studies have found that quitting smoking suddenly is more effective than gradual reduction.
In 2016, among nearly 700 smokers who were addicted to tobacco, 49% of those who quit smoking still quit one month later, while 39% of those who quit smoking gradually.
Support may be the key. In this study, participants who quit cold turkey received help to quit smoking. Among people who try to quit smoking on their own, only 3 to 5 out of 100 quit smoking for a long time.
Quitting addictive drugs such as heroin is much more difficult for cold turkeys. These substances can cause physical changes in the brain, and when you stop taking them, they can cause severe cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
is it safe?
Quitting highly addictive drugs or severe alcohol dependence can cause serious side effects, and in some cases even death. It is best to be under the care of a doctor or addiction treatment center.
What are the risks?
Unpleasant withdrawal symptoms will drive you to use the substance again to stop it. Reusing drugs or alcohol after you stop using drugs or alcohol is called a relapse.
After you quit smoking, your tolerance to the substance will decrease. If you start taking it again, you are more likely to overdose.
What physical and emotional changes will it cause?
Physical symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea
- pain
- fatigue
- Sweating
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Muscle pain
- Fast or slow heartbeat
- Runny nose
- Goose bumps
- shake
Mental and emotional symptoms of withdrawal include:
- anxiety
- irritability
- Frustrated
- Desire for material
- Puzzled
- Hallucination
- Paranoid
These symptoms can last from a few days to a few weeks.
How do you prepare?
Your doctor can recommend medications and rehabilitation plans that can help. For example, they can provide prescription drugs to alleviate the cravings caused by smoking cessation or opioids.
In addition, let your friends and family know that you plan to quit smoking. If you want to start using it again, they can help you complete the process and distract you.
Get rid of all temptations. If you smoke, throw away all cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays. If you have an alcohol use disorder, pour out all alcohol in the refrigerator and pantry. Bring any unused drugs to the police station or other authorized collection point.
You can also plan your desires by having a lot of interference nearby. When you want to smoke, snacks like carrot sticks and licorice can keep your hands and mouth occupied. A good movie may make you forget the urge to take drugs.
Finally, queuing support. Seek help from a professional consultant or therapist.
When to call the doctor
If you have the following severe symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately:
- high fever
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Hallucination
- Serious chaos
- Arrhythmia
Generalize
Cold turkey is a way to quit smoking, but it is not for everyone. Before trying cold turkey, please consult your doctor to make sure you get the support and services you need to succeed.