Why does my dad feel dumber after quitting smoking? -
My father recently quit smoking, although reluctantly. He says, oddly, that his mind seems to be working more slowly now that he has quit. For example, he plays chess online and says that he is losing a much larger margin of his games than before. In addition, he says that he can’t think as fast at work either. Does anyone know anyone else who has had this problem, why it might be so, or how to help it?
Strong Withdrawal Symptoms
What he is experiencing is nothing but a strong desire to go back to smoking again. Like you said he quit reluctantly. So you can consider it as a withdrawal symptom which is making his brain deny the fact that he is actually benefiting from quitting.
The fact is that after you quit smoking, it takes only 12 hours for your carbon monoxide levels in your blood to drop This means now more oxygen is carried to your brain and muscles. More oxygen is healthy for the brain and instead of making it slow, it will make it work better than before.
However in the beginning, it takes a few days to get used to a healthy brain and the oxygen. You feel like you are somewhat intoxicated, but the fact is that you are coming back to normal.
A great way to get used to it is by getting involved in some physical activities like walking, jogging, or a yoga exercise (see the link below) that will help clean the lungs, respiratory system and digestive system.
Make sure your father knows that very soon he will start noticing a much higher concentration (that he hasn-t felt before), increase in memory, and a great focus.
Just for records, I have been a chain smoker for more than 17 years. I lived half my life smoking. When I quit, I felt the same, but now I don-t have a reason to go back to smoking. Tell him to hang in and visit the site below. This site has helped many people become aware of the evils of smoking and helped them stay smoke free.
probably withdrawl symptoms.