Nicotine Addiction
Nicotine is an addictive drug found in tobacco. Although the nicotine itself may not cause a great deal of damage, its addiction leads to continued smoking and damage to your body from the other 200 chemicals that cigarettes contain. Because the body develops a need for nicoline, withdrawal symptoms will occur when you stop. Cigarette smoking can cause major damage to the body, including atherosclerosis, heart disease, emphysema (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD), peripheral blood vessel disease, strokes, cancer (lung, stomach, and prostate), ulcers, bladder dysfunctions, dementia information and many other health problems.
Common Symptoms with Smoking Addiction
- Angina
- Claudication (pain in legs when walking)
- Shortness of breath
- Ulcers, stomach pain
- Brain dysfunction: memory, concentration
- Bladder/prostate problems
- Poor recovery from surgical procedures
- Prolonged wound healing
- More frequent illnesses, such as colds/flu
- Yellow staining of skin and clothing
Common Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Anxiety or depression
- Concentration difficulties
- Decreased heart rate
- Increased hunger and resultant weight gain
What You Need to Know
The causes of smoking and nicotine addiction are a complex combination of hereditary predisposition and a variety of social, environmental, physical, and psychological factors. The most important factor in treating addiction of any kind is the desire to stop. Once the motivation is present, treatments are much more effective.
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