A friend, who smoked for over 25 years, did quit cold turkey . On a bike ride a year later, he said he could smell smoke from sweating. Nicotine replacement aids such as gum or patches, remove the danger of damaging the lungs anymore, but do not take away the dangers of stroke, blood clots and high blood pressure also associated with nicotine. Replacement aids keep the receptors happy, but perpetuate the need for nicotine. It can be used to quiet cravings.
Overuse can cause nausea and vomiting, making it unpleasant to abuse.
Support groups can also be invaluable as well as help from loved ones. Smoking is one of the hardest habits to quit, but with some understanding of the problem and a strong desire to stop, it can be overcome.