One of the most encouraging parts of quitting smoking is that your body starts healing quickly.
Some changes happen within minutes. Others take weeks, months, and years. But healing starts early.
After about 20 minutes, heart rate and blood pressure begin to move in a healthier direction.
After about 24 hours, carbon monoxide levels drop and oxygen can work better in the body.
After a few days, nicotine is gone. This is often when cravings and withdrawal feel strongest.
After several weeks, circulation begins to improve and breathing may start to feel easier.
After several months, coughing and shortness of breath may reduce.
After a year, the risk of heart disease becomes significantly lower compared with continuing to smoke.
The first phase of quitting can be uncomfortable, but it is also the phase where your body is adjusting and recovering.
If you feel bad in the early days, that does not mean quitting is harming you. It usually means healing has started and your body is adapting.