If you heard another person tell you that cigarettes contain tons of pollutants, you would probably shake your head, roll your eyes, and beg them to tell you something you don’t know. Obviously, hardly anyone is unfamiliar with the poisons packed inside these little sticks of death. From the highly addictive stimulant called nicotine to the horde of radioactive and carcinogenic particles floating through the air, not to mention the deadly tar in secondhand smoke, cigarettes pretty much spell doom for anyone who breaths through these mini tailpipes. However, did you know that these little devices happen to contain a dangerous preservative, one that is used for medical purposes? Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know about formaldehyde in cigarettes.
What Is Formaldehyde?
Most of you might think that formaldehyde is actually a liquid, but, in reality, this substance you are familiar with is called formalin (a combination of water, methyl alcohol, and formaldehyde gas). Besides its use in industrial maintenance, formaldehyde is also placed in household products, adhesives, and a variety of disinfectants. Even more disturbing, this chemical is also used to destroy viruses in medical circles.
Sift through Cigarette Smoke
Based on an article published in the American Journal of Public Health, the amount for formaldehyde contained in secondhand smoke is three times higher than the “safe” limit for human exposure. In fact, men and women who smoke cigarettes on a daily basis can have 0.9-2 milligrams of formaldehyde in their systems. Furthermore, the eye, throat, and nose irritation experienced by cigarette smokers can all be traced back to formaldehyde.
A Carcinogenic Substance
Back in 1995, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) determined that formaldehyde could be a carcinogen, and, after an additional investigation in 2004, doctors finally concluded that this chemical is a human carcinogen. While we cannot tell you if this chemical directly causes cancer, medical professionals have concluded that smokers will suffer from short-term problems due to exposure to formaldehyde, including:
- Watery eyes;
- Burning sensations, specifically in the eyes, throat, and nose;
- Wheezing and coughing;
- Queasiness; and
- Irritated skin.
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.
