WHAT IS TOBACCO?
- Tobacco comes from a plant and contains the stimulant drug, nicotine.
- It is usually smoked in cigarettes, cigars and pipes, but is also
found in a powdered form called snuff (to be sniffed up the nose)
and as chewing tobacco or dip.
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF SMOKING?
- Nicotine increases pulse rate and blood pressure.
- The effects can usually be felt immediately, and can last up to
30 minutes from one cigarette.
- First time users often feel dizzy or nauseous, even after just a
few puffs or "drags" from a cigarette.
- Regular users often report that smoking reduces their anxiety and
helps them relax.
- Some smokers say nicotine reduces their appetite, so they eat less.
IS TOBACCO ADDICTIVE?
- Tobacco is highly addictive. Regular use can result in physical
dependency with long-lasting withdrawal symptoms.
- Depression, irritability, restlessness and anxiety are some of the
symptoms experienced by smokers who haven't had a cigarette in a while.
- These symptoms produce a strong craving for another
cigarette.
WHAT OTHER PROBLEMS CAN RESULT FROM SMOKING?
- Coughing, as well as other chest and breathing problems afflict
some smokers.
- Bad breath and discolored teeth are also common among people who
smoke regularly.
- Regular smokers have a much greater risk of developing lung cancer
and other forms of cancer, as well as heart disease, circulatory problems
and bronchitis.
- Smoking during pregnancy can harm an unborn child, resulting in
low birth weight and other complications.
- Second-hand smoke can also be hazardous to one's health, especially
to children and people with asthma or other chest problems.
IF YOU SMOKE AND WANT TO QUIT...
- Stay away from places where lots of people smoke.
- Tell all your friends and family that you are trying to quit, and
get their support.
- Let your doctor know your trying to quit, and see what they say/
- Try acupuncture, nicotine chewing gum, patches, or other popular
remedies.
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