Overview

Nicotine dependence occurs when you become reliant on nicotine and find it challenging to quit using tobacco. Nicotine is the chemical in tobacco that creates a temporary pleasurable effect in the brain, leading to addiction. As you smoke more, you develop a higher tolerance to nicotine, requiring more to achieve the same effect. Attempting to stop smoking can result in unpleasant mental and physical changes, known as nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

Quitting smoking can greatly improve your health, but breaking nicotine dependence isn't easy. However, there are effective treatments available to help you quit. If you suspect nicotine dependence, seek help from a healthcare professional.

Symptoms

Signs of nicotine dependence may include:

• Inability to quit smoking despite serious attempts
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit, such as cravings, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, frustration, anger, increased hunger, insomnia, constipation, or diarrhea
• Continuing to smoke despite health problems
• Limiting social activities to avoid smoke-free places

When to See a Doctor

If you've tried to stop smoking but haven't been successful, you're not alone. Most smokers make several attempts before achieving long-term abstinence. Seeking a treatment plan that addresses both the physical and behavioral aspects of nicotine dependence can significantly increase your chances of success. Medications and counseling from a tobacco treatment specialist can be helpful in quitting smoking.

Causes

Nicotine is the addictive chemical in tobacco that keeps you smoking. It rapidly reaches the brain after taking a puff, increasing the release of neurotransmitters that regulate mood and behavior. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is released in the brain's reward center, causing pleasure and an improved mood. Over time, nicotine becomes part of your daily routine, intertwined with habits and feelings.

Common situations that trigger the urge to smoke include taking breaks at work, drinking coffee, drinking alcohol, driving, and spending time with friends. Overcoming nicotine dependence involves identifying these triggers and developing a plan to deal with them.

Risk Factors

Anyone who smokes or uses tobacco is at risk of becoming nicotine dependent. Factors that influence tobacco use include age, genetics, parental and peer influences, mental illness, and substance use.

Complications

Tobacco smoke contains numerous harmful substances, causing various health problems:

• Lung cancer and lung disease
• Other cancers
• Heart and circulatory system problems
• Diabetes
• Eye problems
• Infertility and impotence
• Complications during pregnancy
• Cold, flu, and other illnesses
• Tooth and gum disease

Smoking also poses health risks to those around you, including family members and children.

Prevention

The best way to prevent nicotine dependence is to avoid using tobacco in the first place. Parents who do not smoke or successfully quit smoking reduce the likelihood of their children taking up smoking.