Nicotine is a substance found in tobacco. When consumed, typically through smoking cigarettes, it can trigger an addiction that makes it difficult for a patient to stop smoking. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, nicotine works as a stimulant and a depressant. There are a number of symptoms that result from a nicotine dependence or addiction. Understanding how nicotine affects the body can help a patient to take the necessary steps to combat the addiction.
Nicotine's Effect on the Brain
The Mayo Clinic explains that when smoke from a cigarette is inhaled, nicotine travels to the brain in seven to 10 seconds. Because it reaches the brain so quickly, it produces feelings of immediate gratification by releasing "feel-good" chemicals such as dopamine. This feeling becomes addictive driving the patient to smoke again to achieve this same feeling. Subsequently, the brain develops memories associated with smoking especially when a patient engages in other behaviors while smoking. For example, many smokers drink alcohol or coffee while smoking. Over time, alcohol of coffee will trigger cravings for cigarettes even when the patient isn't smoking.
Long-Term Health Problems
Many patients are fully aware of the potential health problems that can occur as a result of continued smoking. Due to its addictive properties, patients may have the desire to stop smoking but feel powerless, even with the development of these health problems. Respiratory problems such as asthma, a chronic cough and even lung cancer can develop with the continued consumption of nicotine.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal occurs when a patient with a nicotine addiction attempts to stop smoking and experiences physical or emotional symptoms. Some patients experience physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, increased appetite and extreme hunger or thirst. Common emotional symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include drowsiness, sadness, depression, frustration, anger, anxiety, restlessness or irritability.
