Nicotine dependence

NICOTINE DEPENDENCE

Nicotine dependence, as the name suggests, refers to the dependence of an individual on Nicotine. We all somewhat have an understanding of how, dependence over any “feel good” substance, in this case, nicotine, is harmful for our bodily functions but this is not the only thing which is important to consider. It takes a mental toll on the individual facing this disorder and in this case, we have to consider thousands of people. Understanding the disease is important but understanding the people affected is equally important.

WHY DOES NICOTINE DEPENDENCE OCCURS? / CAUSE 

Nicotine is a naturally occurring compound produced in the nightshade family of plants one of the examples being Nicotiana Tabacum. It is consumed in different forms, some being – cigarettes, snuff, cigars and even E-cigarettes. One of the main reasons, people start consuming more and more of these forms of nicotine is the “feel good” factor it has that is, it gives the consumer a pleasurable/happy feeling. This happens because nicotine can mimic Dopamine which is also popularly known as the happy hormone. As the nicotine does so, it can stimulate the same centers in the brain which the happy hormone, that is, Dopamine does, leading eventually to a good feeling which the brain starts associating with nicotine use. It is also important to understand that developing dependence on nicotine may vary from person to person.

Nicotine, apart from stimulating the same areas as dopamine also stimulates adrenal gland, leading to the release of adrenaline. The effects from release of adrenaline manifest as increased heart rate and blood pressure.  All in all, nicotine provides the user with a “kick” which they try clinging onto.

NICOTINE WITHDRAWAL

Gradually as the individual starts increasing the amount of nicotine they consume in a day, their system starts becoming more and more dependent on nicotine.  There, then, comes a stage in which even if the person tries to quit nicotine, they are unable to do so as their body starts experiencing unpleasant effects. This is termed as nicotine withdrawal. Some of these unpleasant effects are: –

• Headaches
• Insomnia, that is, difficulty falling/remaining asleep.
• Irritability
• Nicotine craving
• Dizziness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Decrease in ability to concentrate
• Restlessness
• Increased appetite
• Constipation or diarrhea

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR 1 

• You find yourself smoking more frequently than before
• On trying to stop, you experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms as listed above.

RISKS FACTORS 2

• Age – if nicotine consumption starts at a younger age, the chances of becoming addicted to nicotine are higher
• Mental health issues – People with mental health issues such as depression, PTSD i.e. post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia and so on are more likely to get into nicotine consumption.
• Genetics
• Substance abuse

HARMFUL EFFECTS 

Nicotine consumption causes the following effects: –

• Dizziness/lightheadedness
• Nightmares
• Enlargement of aorta
• Increased chances of atherosclerosis
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Increased risk of stroke
• Peptic ulcers
• Increase in blood pressure
• Dry mouth
• Joint pain
• Insulin resistance may develop which translates to higher risk of diabetes
• Cognitive decline
• Heartburn
• High risk of dementia and even stroke
• Prone to cancers of lungs, oral cavity and throat that is all the areas directly in contact with the nicotinic substances are at higher risk
• Increased risk of cataracts
• Decreased fertility in females
• Chances of ectopic pregnancy increase
• Impotence in males
• Gingivitis which may progress to periodontitis

TREATMENT

Firstly, it is important to understand that nicotine dependence is something which affects thousands of people around the world but there is also a large population of people who have been able to work past and through this challenge that is in the form of nicotine dependence.

The treatment of nicotine dependence is called smoking cessation therapy. There is no one way or mode of help rather help is available in a number of forms and ways- like seeking the help of a counselor or a practicing doctor who has the authority to prescribe certain medications for same.

Some medications include: –

• Bupropion
• Vareniciline
• Nicotine replacement therapy(NRT)

Both consulting a doctor and getting help from a counselor are equally effective. Help from friends, colleagues and family members also plays a vital role in rehabilitation of the affected person.

CONCLUSION 

Nicotine dependence is not something that should be taken lightly. If you feel that someone you know may be going through something like this, it is always best to reach and help them. Let them know that they are not alone and help is available is many forms. It is always a good idea to spread awareness so that more and more people understand and in turn, also reach out and extend help. It’s time we come together and fight against nicotine dependence.

SOURCES: –

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nicotine-dependence/symptoms-causes/syc-20351584
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/181299
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/breaking-free-from-nicotine-dependence
• https://buddingpsychologists.org/substance-abuse-types-causes-treatment-prevention/
• https://buddingpsychologists.org/smoking-a-classy-way-to-kill-the-brain/