Did you know that cigarette smoking is still listed as the number one most preventable cause of death in our country? Now, consider the fact that over 480,000 people die each year as a direct result of inhaling cigarette toxins, and you can see why this situation is so frustrating. Although the number of people over the age of 18 who smoke is lower today than it has ever been, the percentage of people who continue to use these dangerous. In fact, the CDC reports that 15.1% of adult citizens of the U.S. were using cigarettes in 2015. So, why is this the case? Overall, the fact that cigarettes are filled with an addictive stimulant called nicotine might have something to do with it. Let’s take a closer look at the tricky relationship between this drug and our brains.
The Addictive Nature of Nicotine
After a smoker inhales the fumes from tobacco, the nicotine moves through the bloodstream and reaches the brain in a matter of 10 seconds. After it reaches the nerve center (so to speak), this drug triggers the release of neurochemicals that create a subsequent rush of euphoria. After these feelings die down, smokers will feel antsy until they can consume more nicotine. However, did you know that many smokers are fully unaware of the fact that they are addicted to cigarettes?
Rush of Adrenaline
When people inhale cigarette smoke, the nicotine triggers the release of adrenaline, the “fight-or-flight” hormone, subsequently causing an overwhelming boost of energy. Ultimately, adrenaline causes a person’s heart to work in overdrive, causing spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. As a result, blood flow will be restricted to the muscles, and glucose will pour into the bloodstream.
Rush of Dopamine
In the same manner as cocaine or heroin, nicotine also stimulates the release of dopamine, a chemical which is responsible for causing the euphoric “high.” In these cases, smokers will have to continue consuming the drug to feel a pleasurable response. However, nicotine is not as powerful as other stimulants, like amphetamines.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Remember that addiction can be triggered by one shot of alcohol or a single puff of a cigarette, but the true danger of this sickness is that you cannot fully determine how much you have to consume before your mind forms an attachment. Social smoking is just as dangerous as chronic smoking, on many levels, but you do not have to smoke to have a good time. Remember, drugs cannot determine if you have fun and do not have control over your life.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
