Nicotine dependence is the main factor responsible for addiction to smoking. Every cigarette, on average, gives 1 mg of nicotine which is absorbed directly into the blood. This results in mood-altering affects like stimulation and relaxation experienced by the smoker. This article tries to gain further insight on this crucial topic of awareness on smoking.
“The addiction caused by nicotine has been one of the hardest addictions to break in history. “
– The American Heart Association.
How Nicotine Makes Smokers Addictive ?
Modern research shows that nicotine activates what is called the “reward pathways” by researchers. It is the circuitry in the brain that controls feelings of pleasure and high. The chemical dopamine is called the pleasure hormone. Its release in the brain make us feel happy. Nicotine increases the levels of dopamine by artificial means and disrupts the normal functioning of the brain.
When taken in high doses, nicotine plays the role of a sedative pain killer by releasing the chemical serotonin. This ability to influence the brain in multiple ways makes nicotine unique when compared to other drugs. The alterations caused by nicotine persist for months in the brain. All along this period, the organ craves for more nicotine and hence its addiction and dependence arise.
What are the Symptoms of Nicotine Dependence ?
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Diarrhea
- Depressed mood
- Frustration or anger
- Increased hunger
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Inability to stop smoking after repeated attempts of quitting
- Restlessness
- Strong cravings for nicotine when withdrawal is attempted
What are the Available Treatments of Nicotine Dependence ?
If a person resolves to quit smoking prior to the age of 50 years, the risk of losing life reduces by half. Chances of getting a heart attack also reduce to half after one year from the day of quitting. There are a range of treatment options available to get rid of nicotine addiction and dependence. They are:
- Nicotine replacement therapy
- Nicotine patch
- Nicotine gum
- Lozenge
- Nasal spray
- Inhaler
- Antidepressants
- Telephone counseling
- Group counseling and internet counseling programs
