Cigarette smoking, unfortunately, continues to be extremely widespread even though the scientific evidence of its harmful effects is overwhelming. People know that nicotine is the chief ingredient in cigarettes, and also responsible for its addictive effects, but they don't know that cigarette smoke contains thousands of different chemicals, including a number of known carcinogens.

Around 70 cancer-causing chemical agents are identifiable in cigarette smoke and there's a chance that more could be identified by doing further research. If you feel like vomiting after smoking, then it could be a reaction to one of these chemicals that are present in the cigarettes.

Why Do You Feel Sick After Smoking?

'Smoking makes me nauseous' is a common complaint that people have. Here are three reasons as to why that can happen:

1. Chemical agents in the cigarettes

Cigarettes are made from dried tobacco leaves with added chemicals to make them more pleasant for smokers. These chemicals undergo several reactions when they burn, and as a result, an estimated 7000 chemicals can be found in cigarette smoke. Many of these are responsible for increasing the risk of cancer and inducing nausea-like symptoms. If you feel like vomiting after smoking, then these chemicals are likely to be responsible.

Not only are these chemicals toxic but they also reduce the amount of oxygen being supplied to the brain, resulting in nausea and vomiting. The same effects can also be felt by people exposed to excessive second-hand smoke.

2. Nicotine poisoning

High doses of nicotine cause an excessive stimulation of the nicotinic cholinergic neurons, leading to the symptoms of nicotine poisoning. The symptoms include nicotine nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, pain in the abdomen, increased heart rate, tremors, and even seizures.

3. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms

Cigarette smoking is both physically and mentally addictive: that's why it can be very difficult to quit. People who quit suddenly may tend to feel symptoms that are very similar to when they first started smoking. Nausea, vomiting, headaches, sweating, irritability, and a difficulty in concentration are some of the notable symptoms.

Treatment for Nausea After Smoking

• For nicotine products irritation

The chemical agents in cigarettes are very harmful. The only way to avoid their ill-effects is to stay away from them completely. If you feel like vomiting after smoking, then not smoking is essential.

Of course, quitting is easier said than done as it requires patience, will-power, and a lot of mental strength for a heavy smoker to actually be able to quit smoking.

• For nicotine poisoning

The first step in the treatment of nicotine poisoning involves the use of activated charcoal administration to reduce the amount of nicotine being absorbed into the system. Further treatment will deal with arising symptoms and is basically supportive in nature.

For patients that are having a difficulty in breathing, mechanical ventilation may be necessary. The use of anti-seizure drugs, like benzodiazepine, is very helpful in controlling seizures.

Similarly, patients that are experiencing a drop in blood pressure will need intravenous fluid administration and the use of atropine for a drop in heart rate.

• For nicotine withdrawal

Fighting nicotine withdrawal is quite difficult in the beginning. A person undergoing withdrawal should make use of all the help available. The longer a person is able to go without nicotine, though, the easier it becomes to remain without any.

Some of the things that help include distraction, exercise, healthy diet, and adequate rest.

The urge to smoke can be sudden and very strong, so quickly changing the activity you are involved in or distracting yourself with something simple like getting a glass of water is very effective. People who are trying to quit smoking are encouraged to take up a hobby which they can immerse themselves in during any free time that they have.

Exercising releases endorphins into the body, keeping your mood up.

Provide your body with good quality fuel during this period of stress and get as much rest as you need.

The Final Word

Smoking is one of the worst habits that a person can pick up when it comes to their health and well-being. There are volumes of scientific data proving conclusively the terrible things smoking does to your body. If you feel like vomiting after smoking, then maybe it's time to listen to your body and stop.