Addiction, or dependence, to nicotine occurs both
physically and psychologically.
Most people develop very strong
psychological associations with nicotine use, including repetitive and
relaxing behaviors. Nicotine also causes strong physical cravings. It
causes the brain to release a chemical called dopamine, which creates
feelings of pleasure. Over time, the brain requires nicotine in order
to produce these feelings.
Tobacco products are dangerous to a person's health and increase a
person's chances of developing certain cancers and other health
problems. These include lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, stoke,
bronchitis, high blood pressure, infertility, and coronary artery
disease. Women who smoke while pregnant can damage their unborn child.
Babies who are exposed to smoke have a much higher risk of dying from
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Everyone exposed to secondhand
smoke is at a higher risk of related health complications.
People who are addicted to nicotine show a variety of symptoms when
they do not use nicotine. This can include irritability, shakiness,
trouble paying attention, trouble sleeping, increased appetite, and
intense cravings. Anyone who uses nicotine is at risk for developing an
addiction, although the younger a person starts, the greater the
chances addiction will result.
Treatment for nicotine dependence is to quit using the substance. There
are many tools available to help a person quit. These include nicotine
patches and gums that allow a person to gradually reduce dependency and
other nicotine substitutes. A healthcare provider can prescribe these
aids and many are available over the counter. Because nicotine
addiction is so strong, a person may experience cravings months or even
years after quitting, so an ongoing plan for remaining nicotine-free
can help reduce chances of relapse.