Overview
There are plenty of reasons to stop using smokeless tobacco. These products contain nicotine, which is addictive. Smokeless tobacco can cause serious health problems, such as:
- White patches or red sores in your mouth that can turn into mouth (oral) cancer involving the lip, tongue, or cheek.
- Tooth loss and other dental problems.
- Gum disease. Your gums may pull away from your teeth and not grow back.
People who use tobacco crave the nicotine in it. Giving it up is much harder than simply changing a habit. Your body has to stop craving the nicotine. It's hard to quit, but you can do it. Many tools are available for people who want to quit. You may find that combining tools works best for you.
There are several steps to quitting. Your doctor can help you set up the plan that best meets your needs. You may want to attend a tobacco cessation program. When you choose a program, look for one that has proven success. Ask your doctor for ideas. You will greatly increase your chances of success if you take medicine as well as get counselling or join a cessation program.
Some of the changes you feel when you first quit are uncomfortable. Your body will miss the nicotine at first, and you may feel short-tempered and grumpy. You may have trouble sleeping or concentrating. Medicine can help you deal with these symptoms. You may struggle with changing your habits and rituals. And the urge to use tobacco may continue for a time.
This may be a lot to deal with, but keep at it. You will feel better.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter U368 in the search box to learn more about "Stopping Smokeless Tobacco Use: Care Instructions".