Risks of nicotine use in children and adolescents
Cigarettes, vapes, tobacco heating systems and other nicotine-containing products are especially dangerous in adolescence. The body is actively growing, and the brain and nervous system continue to form, so nicotine quickly causes dependence and can cause long-term harm.
Why is it important for parents and teenagers to know?:
1. Brain and psycho-emotional state: Nicotine interferes with the processes responsible for attention, learning and impulse control. The result may be decreased concentration and memory, poor academic performance, increased irritability, anxiety, and the risk of depression. Addiction in adolescents develops very quickly, sometimes in a matter of days, when using devices with a high dose of nicotine.
2. Heart and blood vessels: Nicotine causes palpitations, provokes pressure surges and overloads the cardiovascular system. Vascular elasticity decreases over time, increasing the risk of early hypertension and vascular complications in adulthood.
3. Lungs and breathing: Cough, shortness of breath, and decreased stamina appear faster in adolescents than they seem. Severe lung lesions, the so-called "popcorn disease", including acute inflammatory conditions, are described for vapes.
4. Oral cavity and appearance: Caries, inflammation of tissues, unpleasant odor, deterioration of skin and hair. In the future, the risks of chronic diseases of the mucous membranes increase.
5. Growth and development: Nicotine reduces appetite, inhibits the absorption of calcium, iron and vitamins. Weakness, anemia, and bone problems are possible. Nicotine can also affect the hormonal balance: in girls, cycle disorders, in boys, risks to reproductive health.