Exactly what happens to your body after you quit vaping

Vaping has become a popular option for those trying to kick their smoking habits.

Although they've been dubbed 'substantially safer' than conventional cigarettes, not enough evidence has been gathered on vaping to declare it totally safe.

Experts have warned vapers to be prepared for withdrawal symptoms if they decide to quit.

Dr. Ali Kermanizadeh, senior lecturer in clinical biochemistry and toxicology at the University of Derby, explained: 'Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on the planet.

'Hence, the withdrawal symptoms following discontinuation of vaping can be challenging.'

Kermanizadeh pointed out that for most individuals, 'withdrawal symptoms disappear after four weeks' although for some, these can last longer.

Nicotine cravings can kick in after just four hours / Yaroslav Litun / Getty

The most common symptoms to look out for are cravings, headaches, irritability, anxiety, and depression, and poor sleeping habits.

You'll start to notice changes within the first four hours of stopping vaping. This is where the nicotine effects will start to wear off and cravings will begin to kick in.

Despite being short-lived, Nicholas Hopkinson, professor of respiratory medicine, said that it's best to plan for when these cravings happen. This way you can plan events to distract yourself.

Within 6 and 12 hours of quitting, your heart rate will slow down and your blood pressure will stabilise, but you might feel restless or down.

After about one to three days, all the nicotine will have left your body. But, you may notice an increase in appetite, feelings of irritability, headaches and anxiety, according to Dr Kermanizadeh.

By a week, you'll be glad the worst should be over, with senses of smell and taste returning.

Two to four weeks, your appetite will be back to normal and you should start feeling like your normal self again.

After six months, your lung capacity should return to normal / Yaroslav Litun / Getty

Fast forward to two to three months and any symptoms of coughing and wheezing should be significantly reduced, Dr Kermanizadeh stated.

Nyree Whitley, from mydentist, warns that vaping can cause inflammation in the mouth, 'leading to gum disease and the increased chance of developing mouth cancer.'

However, by quitting vaping, inflammation will ease, leading to healthier gums and oral health.

By cutting your habit, you can also decrease your chances of developing mouth cancer along with further health problems.

Finally, at six to nine months, your breathing should return to normal as any damage to your lungs will have repaired itself. So, normal activities should feel easier on your lungs.

Finally, after nine months of quitting the vaping habit, you can expect to feel healthier overall and have a lower risk of serious health issues.

Sounds like quitting is worth it in the long run!