Effects of Nicotine on the Body
Smoking accelerates the development of this bone condition, characterized by brittle bones and an increased risk of fractures
What is osteoporosis?
This respiratory disease, often caused by long-term smoking, is a progressive condition that causes irreversible airflow limitation and chronic cough.
What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
A nicotine patch is typically worn on this part of the body, where it can absorb nicotine through the skin
What is the upper arm or back (or any skin area without hair or irritation)?
People using nicotine gum are advised not to swallow the gum, as it may cause this digestive issue
What is upset stomach or nausea?
This addictive substance in tobacco is the primary reason why people become dependent on smoking
What is nicotine?
This system is most affected by nicotine, which causes an increase in heart rate and constricts blood vessels
What is the cardiovascular system?
Chronic nicotine use can lead to this condition, where the lungs lose their ability to stretch and contract properly, making it hard to breathe
What is emphysema?
This is the length of time most nicotine patches are designed to be worn each day, providing a continuous release of nicotine
What is 24 hours?
To use nicotine gum effectively, this technique, often called "chew and park," should be followed to prevent too much nicotine from being released too quickly
What is chewing the gum slowly and then "parking" it between the cheek and gums?
This term refers to the involuntary inhalation of secondhand smoke, which can cause many of the same health risks as active smoking
What is passive smoking or secondhand smoke?
This type of cancer, often caused by smoking, begins in the lungs and is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide
What is oral cavity, larynx, pharynx, lung cancer?
Smoking is a primary risk factor for this condition, in which the airways become inflamed and narrowed, causing wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath
What is chronic bronchitis?
This is a common side effect of using a nicotine patch, often appearing at the site of application
What is skin irritation or a rash?
This type of nicotine replacement therapy, which is often used for short-term cravings, delivers nicotine through a mist that is inhaled, similar to smoking
What is a nicotine nasal spray?
This is the harmful chemical in tobacco smoke that not only causes cancer but also damages the heart and blood vessels
What is tar?
Nicotine stimulates the release of this hormone, which increases blood pressure and heart rate
What is adrenaline (or epinephrine)?
This is the term for the long-term exposure to harmful substances, like those found in tobacco smoke, which increases the risk of respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis
What is respiratory system compromise (or immune suppression)?
Nicotine patches come in different strengths to gradually reduce dependence on nicotine, typically starting with this highest dose
What is 21 mg (per 24-hour patch)?
This type of medication works by affecting the brain's nicotine receptors, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and is often prescribed for smoking cessation
What is varenicline (Chantix)?
This is one of the most effective ways to quit smoking, involving both nicotine replacement products and behavioral counseling
What is a combination of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and behavioral therapy?
Smoking increases the risk of this condition, which occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes
What is atherosclerosis?
Smoking damages the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to lower levels of this vital substance in the blood
What is asthma?
This is the gradual process involved in nicotine patch therapy, which involves stepping down from higher doses to lower doses over several weeks
What is tapering or weaning?
This smoking cessation medication, which comes in pill form, is used to help reduce the urge to smoke and also reduces symptoms of depression
What is bupropion (Zyban)?
This part of the brain is primarily affected by nicotine, which triggers the release of dopamine and creates feelings of pleasure
What is the reward center (or nucleus accumbens)?