I believe most of us know that smokers inhale nicotine and tobacco from cigarettes. While that is what is commonly printed on the packets, did you know that cigarette smoke has more than 4000 chemicals? Surprisingly around 400 of the chemicals are classified as toxins and another 43 chemical are carcinogenic. Though might be enjoying the smoking experience, prolonged exposure increases chances of lung damage.
Below we have come up with a list of chemicals that you inhale when you smoke:
- Hydrogen Cyanide
This chemical is classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a systemic asphyxiant. When in your body, it lowers the amounts of oxygen reaching the tissues and organs such as the brain, heart and lungs. It i highly toxic and can lead to death or unconsciousness.
- Ammonia
This chemical is highly corrosive and is commonly present in industrial and household products. One experiences coughing, fatigue, chest pain as well burning sensations in the through and nose when exposed to its low amounts. When it long-term it can lead to the destruction of the airways and possible distress or complete failure of the respiratory system.
- Formaldehyde
Exposure levels of over .1ppm may cause negative health effects such as nausea, burning or watery eyes, wheezing, skin irritation, burning sensation to the throat and nose. When exposed for long it can lead to throat and nose cancer.
- Mercury
The toxic effects associated with mercury have made it to be banned from being used in some uses within the US. According to experts, mercury has a connection with headaches, body cardiovascular function changes, hypertension, and behavioral changes. It is a big concern since even limited exposure can lead to extreme damage.
- Carbon Monoxide
There are serious concerns associated with carbon monoxide poisoning which have force several states to enact statutes which require building to install carbon monoxide detectors. Long term exposure to carbon monoxide is connected to heart disease, and short-term exposure can cause blurred vision, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath.
- Lead
Lead poisoning usually happens slowly and usually without noticeable symptoms – which is why it is referred to as a silent killer. It is usually associated with appetite loss, vomiting, abdominal pain, irritation, brain fog, and fatigue. Lead also has a connection with high blood pressure and kidney disease.
- Potassium Citrate
This is the only chemical that can be prescribed by a doctor to treat kidney problems since it helps in eliminating acidic urine. However, when it is taken without correct prescription it can cause serious health effects. Irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, muscle weakness and dizziness are some of the side effects associated with this chemical.