What happens when you chew tobacco?

When someone chews tobacco, they place a wad of cured tobacco leaves between their cheek and gum. The active ingredient in tobacco is nicotine, a stimulant that is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth.

As nicotine is absorbed, it travels to the brain where it binds to receptors in the central nervous system. This causes a release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, leading to a euphoric feeling and sense of relaxation.

In addition to nicotine, chewing tobacco also contains other harmful substances, including tar, arsenic, formaldehyde, and ammonia. These can damage the cells in the mouth and throat and increase the risk of several health issues, such as:

- Oral cancer

- Gum disease and tooth loss

- Leukoplakia (white patches in the mouth)

- Increased heart rate and blood pressure

- Stroke

- Infertility

- Pregnancy complications

- Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Due to the harmful effects of chewing tobacco, it is important to avoid using this product and to seek help for quitting tobacco use.