How Addiction Happens

Among many other substances that are found in a single cigarette, the one many have become most familiar with is nicotine, an alkaloid found in tobacco.  Though some may argue that a mere oral fixation is the cause of addiction to cigarette smoking, studies have shown time and again that nicotine is the top addictive ingredient found in such.  Some research suggests nicotine addiction is greater than that of cocaine.  Prolonged exposure at a young age can lead to developmental and behavioral problems later in life.

Nicotine activates the central nervous system very soon after entering the body.  It binds to certain receptors in the brain which, depending on frequency and amount of use, causes the body to become dependent over a short period of time.  Depending on the dosage, different effects may occur as a result of nicotine addiction.  Lower amounts stimulate dopamine in the brain, causing the body to relax.  Higher amounts, however, trigger a response from serotonin and opiate activators, causing the body to numb and feel less pain. 

Perhaps one of the biggest problems with all of this is the fact that the nicotine “buzz” is very short lived, causing those who are addicted to go through withdrawals, which in turn often causes prolonged cigarette consumption.  Symptoms may include irritability, craving, and an increase in appetite.  The fixation with holding a cigarette is one of the bigger issues with quitting by using a patch or chewing gum.

Nicotine addiction raises blood pressure in most cases.  This can lead to blood clots if fat or cholesterol are released into the circulatory system.  It suppresses the body’s appetite because it releases sugar into the blood stream, a very dangerous route for a diabetic.  For young people, nicotine poisoning can be fatal because their bodies are not ready for its impact.  In a pure dosage, even one drop has the potential to kill a grown human.

Many people think that smoking cigarettes can only lead to lung cancer later in life.  The results, however, show a much different picture.  There are countless ways for smokers to get help so that they may lead a healthy life.  The internet is a great resource for finding support centers and medical help.  Nicotine addiction does not have to win the battle over a loved one’s body.  After looking at all of its impact, is there any debate for smokers that they should seek help and quit now?

Among many other substances that are found in a single cigarette, the one many have become most familiar with is nicotine, an alkaloid found in tobacco.  Though some may argue that a mere oral fixation is the cause of addiction to cigarette smoking, studies have shown time and again that nicotine is the top addictive ingredient found in such.  Some research suggests nicotine addiction is greater than that of cocaine.  Prolonged exposure at a young age can lead to developmental and behavioral problems later in life.

Nicotine activates the central nervous system very soon after entering the body.  It binds to certain receptors in the brain which, depending on frequency and amount of use, causes the body to become dependent over a short period of time.  Depending on the dosage, different effects may occur as a result of nicotine addiction.  Lower amounts stimulate dopamine in the brain, causing the body to relax.  Higher amounts, however, trigger a response from serotonin and opiate activators, causing the body to numb and feel less pain.

Perhaps one of the biggest problems with all of this is the fact that the nicotine “buzz” is very short lived, causing those who are addicted to go through withdrawals, which in turn often causes prolonged cigarette consumption.  Symptoms may include irritability, craving, and an increase in appetite.  The fixation with holding a cigarette is one of the bigger issues with quitting by using a patch or chewing gum.

Nicotine addiction raises blood pressure in most cases.  This can lead to blood clots if fat or cholesterol are released into the circulatory system.  It suppresses the body’s appetite because it releases sugar into the blood stream, a very dangerous route for a diabetic.  For young people, nicotine poisoning can be fatal because their bodies are not ready for its impact.  In a pure dosage, even one drop has the potential to kill a grown human.

Many people think that smoking cigarettes can only lead to lung cancer later in life.  The results, however, show a much different picture.  There are countless ways for smokers to get help so that they may lead a healthy life.  The internet is a great resource for finding support centers and medical help.  Nicotine addiction does not have to win the battle over a loved one’s body.  After looking at all of its impact, is there any debate for smokers that they should seek help and quit now?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melvin_Barkum

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