The Side Effects of Nicotine
The side effects of nicotine vary from person to person, and can include withdrawal symptoms if you try to quit smoking without medication. These withdrawal symptoms may affect your concentration, memory, and sleep. You can also experience headaches, dizziness and a racing heartbeat. If these side effects are severe or persist, you should talk with your doctor to find a solution.
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that can cause serious health problems if used continuously. It changes the way your brain works, altering your reward pathways. This can lead to a craving for nicotine products such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes.
How to Stop Smoking
The first step is to make a plan to quit. Many people use behavioral therapy to help them kick the habit, and medications, such as nicotine replacement therapies, can help. There are several types of NRT to choose from, including inhalers, nasal sprays, and patches.
Patches and inhalers work quickly to deliver nicotine to your lungs and prevent you from getting the urge to smoke. They are easy to use and require a doctor’s prescription. These products are available in various strengths and should be used for a minimum of three to five months.
Using these products is an effective way to reduce your risk of serious health complications and help you to live a long, healthy life free from cigarettes. You will notice some benefits after just a few days, such as lowered blood pressure and a decreased level of carbon monoxide in your body.
You can also expect a reduction in your heart disease and stroke risks, a decrease in your cigarette cravings and the risk of having lung cancer. Your lungs will begin to heal after you stop smoking, and within one year you should notice that they are healthier than they were before.
Your lungs will become less sensitive to air pollutants and you will not be as likely to cough up phlegm, which can trigger an asthma attack. In addition, your immune system will be boosted and you will no longer be susceptible to certain infections that can harm your lungs such as tuberculosis.
The effects of nicotine are usually reversible, but if you decide to quit for good, you should use NRT to help you get through the withdrawal period and avoid relapse. You should start with a low dose, and you can increase it as needed to prevent relapse.
When you smoke, the nicotine in the cigarette stimulates the nervous system, making you feel more alert and excited. Nicotine also increases your blood sugar levels and can lead to a feeling of euphoria. Depending on the type and amount of nicotine you ingest, it can also act as a sedative.
This can make it difficult to concentrate or focus on tasks at hand. You can try calming yourself by doing deep breathing exercises, singing or talking to a friend, playing with your pet or doing puzzles.
