Learn more about smoking, and why so many people find it difficult to quit.
Why Is Smoking Addictive?
Smoking is a difficult habit to kick because most cigarettes contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. If your body gets used to smoking, you will start craving the effects of nicotine. And soon you will become addicted to it.
Smokers usually find smoking enjoyable because nicotine alters the levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain. These lower stress and anxiety levels temporarily. However, the effects of nicotine diminish quickly. Once a person’s body gets used to nicotine, they will have to smoke more cigarettes in order to feel the same effect. This is how a person gets addicted to smoking.
Aside from nicotine, cigarettes also contain harmful chemicals like:
- Arsenic – This naturally occurring substance is found in the earth’s crust, and its inorganic form is used to preserve wood. Long-time exposure to arsenic can lead to arsenic poisoning.
- Formaldehyde – This substance is usually used as embalming fluid, but is also found in cigarettes. When inhaled, it can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Formaldehyde is also a known carcinogen.
- Cadmium – Cadmium is a type of metal which is used in batteries. When cadmium interacts with the human body, it can affect the kidney, respiratory, and even skeletal system. Cadmium is also known to increase your likelihood of cancer.
- Tar – This substance forms when tobacco in cigarettes is burned. Tar creates a sticky layer on the inside of the lungs when it is inhaled. And it can lead to serious respiratory conditions like cancer.
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