Effects of Abstinence from Tobacco Smoking on Physiological and Psychological Arousal Levels in Habitual Smokers

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Abstract
During a 15 day period, human subjects smoked normally for the 1st 5 days, refrained from smoking the next 5 days and smoked again during the last 5 days. Results were compared to nonabstaining group of smokers. Adrenaline and noradrenaline excretion decreased, skin temperature increased and hand steadiness was improved when the subjects stopped smoking. Submaximal physical work tests were performed once each period. No changes occurred in perceived exertion for abstainers during work, despite a reduced heart rate. There were only minor differences between abstaining and smoking subjects in the cognitive tests. Irritation, depression, lack of concentration, sleep disturbances, anxiety, tension and restlessness were frequently reported as abstinence symptoms. A decrease in arousal level during abstinence was indicated.