Tobacco Use Side Effects

Nicotine, the primary psychoactive chemical in tobacco, is one of the most widely used and most powerful drugs in the world. It is delivered by such products as cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco and pipes. While many people enjoy the effects of nicotine, the drug produces a range of harmful side effects, including physical and psychological dependency, numerous diseases and withdrawal symptoms that include headaches, intense cravings, trouble with concentration, anxiety and irritability.

Addiction

• Tobacco use can lead to addiction to nicotine. As in the case of all drug addictions, nicotine addiction creates strong physical and psychological cravings for more of the drug. Addicted users also develop a tolerance for the drug. They require increasingly high doses of nicotine to achieve its effects.

Cancer

• Tobacco use elevates the risk for lung cancer and cancers of the throat, larynx, lips, esophagus, cervix, bladder, skin and mouth. Cigarette smoke contains 19 different carcinogens that can stimulate the growth of cancerous cells that can eventually prove fatal.

Cardiovascular Effects

• Tobacco constricts blood vessels and can weaken the aorta, the main artery running through the body. It increases the risk for peripheral vascular disease, in which the blood vessels in one's extremities become constricted, leading to pain and, potentially, gangrene or death.

Other Lung Ailments

• Smokers can develop emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Tobacco use exacerbates asthma and makes the lungs more prone to infection.

Other Side Effects

• Tobacco use can cause premature wrinkling and an unpleasant odor from the skin. It significantly elevates the risk of stroke. Carcinogenic chemicals in tobacco smoke can alter the user's DNA, giving rise to genetic mutations. Gastroesophageal reflux and peptic ulcers can arise. In men, smoking can cause erectile dysfunction. In pregnant women, smoking can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and other prenatal and neonatal harm.