What is nicotine dependence?

Nicotine, a chemical that is highly addictive, can be found in tobacco plants. Nicotine addiction can be physical or mental. Nicotine addiction can also be behavioral. People can become addicted to the actions that go along with smoking tobacco. People also get used to smoking after eating or when under stress.

Nicotine is consumed primarily by inhaling tobacco smoke. Pipes and cigars are also ways to smoke tobacco. Smokeless tobacco can be inhaled as a powder through the nose or by mouth.

Tobacco can be dangerous. According to a study by Trusted Source, smoking-related diseases cause about 435,000 US deaths each year. This represents about one out of every five deaths in the US. No matter how long you've smoked, quitting smoking can be beneficial to your health.

The effects of nicotine dependence

Nicotine is a pleasant chemical that creates pleasant feelings for the mind and body. Your brain releases dopamine when you smoke tobacco. This produces a short-lived feeling of pleasure and contentment.

Smokeless tobacco and tobacco cigarettes contain a number of cancer-causing agents, as well as other harmful chemicals. Nearly 4,000 chemicals in tobacco can have physical, psychological, and mental effects. This figure accounts for roughly one out of every five deaths in the US.

• lung cancer
• emphysema
• chronic bronchitis
• Cancer, particularly in the respiratory system
• leukemia
• heart disease
• stroke
• diabetes
• Eye issues such as macular degeneration and cataracts
• infertility
• Impotence
• Miscarriage complications of pregnancy
• The immune system weakened
• cold and respiratory diseases
• Loss of smell or taste
• dental problems and gum disease
• The appearance of premature aging
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Osteoporosis

The risk of heart disease and lung cancer is also increased by secondhand smoke for those who are close to smokers. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention Trusted Source, children who live in homes where secondhand smoke is present are more likely to:

• sudden infant death syndrome
• asthma
• Respiratory infections
• Ear infections
• Other illnesses

The causes of nicotine addiction

Nicotine addiction is caused by smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products. Nicotine is highly addictive, and even occasional use can lead to dependency.

Nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges can cause nicotine dependence. The risk is minimal. Nicotine in these products is delivered at a slower rate and in lower quantities than nicotine in tobacco.

Who is most at risk?

Smokers are at risk for addiction. Avoiding tobacco is the best way to avoid addiction. Some factors can increase the likelihood of addiction. People with a history of nicotine dependence and those who grew up in homes where tobacco was used are more likely than others to develop an addiction.

People who begin smoking in their teens are more likely than others to continue smoking into adulthood. In a study by TrustedSource, 80% of smokers started smoking before the age of 18. Smoking young can lead to dependence in later life. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, it's rare for adults to begin smoking or become addicted.

Nicotine dependence is more common in people who are addicted to alcohol, drugs, or have mental illnesses.

Nicotine addiction symptoms

Nicotine addiction is characterized by:

• Inability to quit using tobacco products
• Nicotine withdrawal symptoms
• Smoking despite health problems
• Continue to use tobacco products, even when it negatively affects your life.

How to diagnose

Your doctor will ask you about your health and current use of nicotine to diagnose an addiction. Your doctor will assess your level of dependency and recommend treatment options. Addicts seeking treatment must be willing to stop their habit.

Treatment

Addiction can present a physical challenge. In order to be successful, a person must change their habits and behaviors. Nicotine addiction can be treated with prescription medications, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups.

Medicines

Some medications may help you stop smoking. These medications work by reducing cravings. Nicotine replacement therapy is available in patches, gums, or lozenges, as well as nasal sprays and inhalers. These products contain nicotine but not the other chemicals in tobacco. Your addiction can be overcome gradually and methodically.

Antidepressants are a good option. These drugs work by increasing dopamine to improve mood.

Support groups

Support groups - whether in-person or virtual - can be invaluable resources in developing the necessary coping skills and overcoming addiction. They also offer fellowship with others who face the same challenges.

Home care

The treatment for nicotine addiction is largely based on medication and learning coping skills and how to manage withdrawal symptoms. These tips will help you transition from nicotine to other substances.

• Get regular exercise.
• Select snacks that will keep your mouth and hands busy.
• All tobacco products should be removed from your car and home.
• Avoid situations that may trigger a relapse. This includes being around smokers.
• Healthy food is important.
• Expectations about your treatment should be realistic.
• Set yourself achievable goals, and reward yourself when they're achieved.

Alternative and natural remedies

You can also try:

• Hypnosis
• acupuncture
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• Essential oils

The safety and effectiveness of each option are largely unknown.

Effects on nicotine withdrawal

Addicts who quit using nicotine will experience withdrawal. Nicotine withdrawal can cause irritability and anxiety, as well as physical symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

Withdrawal symptoms will be worse in the first week, but they will ease as time goes on. Even after withdrawal symptoms subside, cravings can still occur. In these situations, it is important to learn discipline.

The future of nicotine addiction

Nicotine users are at increased risk for respiratory disease, cancer (especially lung cancer), stroke, and heart disease. Stop smoking, no matter how long you have smoked.

Credit: The Web Health & Drugs Discussion