Why Smoking No Longer Gives You Pleasure: Nicotine and Nerve Issues

Q: Why Smoking No Longer Gives You Pleasure: Nicotine and Nerve Issues

E-cigarettes typically consist of three main components： a battery, a vaporizing heating coil, and a cartridge containing e-liquid. <br>The e-liquid primarily consists of propylene glycol and glycerin as the main diluents (which can be nicotine-containing or nicotine-free), along

Sudden loss of sensation while smoking may indicate autonomic nervous system dysfunction?

Hello Doctor, I initially started vaping, but after about two months, I suddenly found that smoking did not provide any pleasure from nicotine, nor did I experience any dizziness.
Later, I switched to traditional cigarettes, but still felt nothing.
At the same time, I experienced sudden visual discomfort, where focusing on anything became uncomfortable, and despite undergoing various examinations, no issues were found.
I quit smoking for five months, but after that period, when I tried smoking again, my body still did not respond at all (the cigarettes were definitely not the problem).
Additionally, my eyes continue to feel uncomfortable.
I would like to ask if this indicates an issue with my autonomic nervous system or if there is another underlying condition.
The fact that I still feel nothing after such a long break from smoking makes me suspect that there might be something wrong with my body.
Which specialty should I consult? Have you encountered patients who suddenly lose the sensation from smoking? Also, is there any connection between my eye issues and smoking?

O O, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/19

Dr. Chen Houliang reply Smoking Cessation

E-cigarettes typically consist of three main components: a battery, a vaporizing heating coil, and a cartridge containing e-liquid.
The e-liquid primarily consists of propylene glycol and glycerin as the main diluents (which can be nicotine-containing or nicotine-free), along with other liquid additives.
Manufacturers often include various flavoring agents in the liquid additives, the exact composition of which is proprietary and not publicly disclosed.
The harm caused by e-cigarettes mainly arises from the aerosol produced when the e-liquid is heated, which, in addition to nicotine, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde, contains many other chemicals.
These toxic substances, when heated and used over a long period, may pose health risks such as cancer and other diseases.
Smoking increases sympathetic nervous system tension due to nicotine and particulate matter in tobacco, leading to increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, thereby raising the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
If you experience changes in your body due to smoking, it is a good opportunity to quit smoking (whether traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes).
If you suspect that your eyes have been harmed due to smoking, it is advisable to quit immediately and seek ongoing follow-up examinations at an ophthalmology clinic.

Reply Date: 2022/09/19

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex interplay of physiological and psychological factors related to your smoking habits and overall health. Let's break this down and address your concerns regarding nicotine, nerve issues, and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Understanding Nicotine and Its Effects
Nicotine is a potent stimulant found in tobacco products, including both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes. When you smoke, nicotine quickly enters your bloodstream and reaches your brain, where it binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This binding stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, with regular use, your brain adapts to the presence of nicotine, leading to tolerance. This means that you may need to consume more nicotine to achieve the same pleasurable effects, and eventually, you may find that smoking no longer provides the same satisfaction.

Why You May Not Feel Pleasure from Smoking
1. Tolerance Development: As mentioned, your body can develop a tolerance to nicotine, which may explain why you no longer feel pleasure from smoking after a period of use. This is particularly common when switching from e-cigarettes to traditional cigarettes, as the delivery method and nicotine concentration can vary significantly.

2. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Chronic smoking alters the balance of neurotransmitters in your brain. If you have stopped smoking for a while, your brain may still be adjusting to the absence of nicotine, which can affect your mood and overall sense of well-being.

3. Psychological Factors: Your mental state plays a significant role in how you perceive pleasure. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress, these factors can dampen your ability to enjoy activities that once brought you pleasure, including smoking.

Eye Discomfort and Cognitive Issues
The symptoms you describe, such as eye discomfort and memory issues, are concerning and warrant further investigation. While there is no direct evidence linking smoking to these specific symptoms, several factors could be at play:
1. Visual Strain: If you are experiencing discomfort when focusing on objects, it may be related to eye strain or an underlying vision issue. Prolonged screen time, lack of proper lighting, or uncorrected vision problems can contribute to this discomfort.

2. Cognitive Function: Smoking can have long-term effects on cognitive function, but if you have stopped smoking for five months and still experience memory issues, it may be unrelated to your smoking history. Stress, anxiety, or other health conditions could be contributing factors.

Recommendations for Next Steps
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. An ophthalmologist can evaluate your eye discomfort, while a neurologist or psychiatrist can assess your cognitive issues and overall mental health.

2. Consider a Comprehensive Evaluation: A thorough evaluation may include blood tests to check for deficiencies (such as vitamin B12 or thyroid function), imaging studies if necessary, and psychological assessments to rule out conditions like anxiety or depression.

3. Explore Alternative Therapies: If you are looking for ways to manage your symptoms without medication, consider therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety or stress management techniques, which can help improve your overall mental health.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure you are getting adequate sleep. These lifestyle factors can significantly impact both your mental and physical health.

Conclusion
Your experience of not feeling pleasure from smoking, along with the eye discomfort and cognitive issues, suggests that there may be underlying factors that need to be addressed. It is essential to seek professional help to explore these symptoms further and to develop a comprehensive plan for your health. Remember, quitting smoking is a significant achievement, and focusing on your overall well-being will be beneficial as you navigate this journey.

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