If you have ever known a smoker or have previously indulged in this practice yourself, then you are probably aware of the term “cigarette tar.” Typically, this term is used to describe the mucky, sticky clump of poisons and toxins that is produced after tobacco is burned. (As its name suggests, this “tar” has a brown or yellowish color and sticky, clingy residue, but it shares not relation to the tar found on roadways.) Why is this so important? In the world of cigarette consumption, three particular toxins are brought into the public spotlight: carbon monoxide, the addictive nicotine, and (of course) tar. Although nicotine itself might be infamous for triggering hopeless bouts of cigarette addiction, tar is actually the biggest cause for concern, as it can cause a variety of cancers. Let’s take a closer look at cigarette tar and find out some more information.
Terrible Tar
Based on a report from the National Cancer Institute, tobacco smoke contains an estimated 7,000 different toxins, which are mostly embedded in the tar produced by cigarettes. In that light, 250 of these chemicals include carbon monoxide, ammonia, and (shockingly of all) hydrogen cyanide. Now, let’s consider that 69 out of the thousands of dangerous substances in cigarettes have been fully proven to cause types of cancer (including oral cancer) and a variety of diseases. Over time, smokers build up a collection of this toxic tar in their lungs, which will gradually turn from a bright pink into a tarry brown or gray. Overall, this tarry byproduct will destroy cilia and (through breathing) will be forced in and out of the lungs.
Some Facts about Thirdhand Smoke
We are all familiar with secondhand smoke (the byproduct exhaled by smokers) and its health risks to passerby, but did you know that scientists have also identified thirdhand smoke? What is this you may ask? According to researchers, thirdhand smoke constitutes the toxic byproducts that linger in the air (specifically closed environments) after someone has used a cigarette, a pipe, or other smokable materials.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Despite what people may tell you, cigarettes and any tobacco products are completely hazardous to your health. Huge quantities of dangerous chemicals and toxins can destroy your lungs, heart, brain, and much more and leave you feeling tired and hopeless. However, even if you have formed an attachment to these toxic sticks and their byproducts, you can always find a way to get your life back on track. Cigarettes do not hold onto the strings of your life. Only you can determine your future.
If you, a friend, or loved one is suffering from nicotine addiction, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you separate yourself from these substances. The time to take back control of your life is now.
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 attachment to tobacco products.
