Hookah, or shisha, is currently popular as a modern way to enjoy tobacco. However, its use does come with side effects on both the body and mind. The following is a comprehensive explanation of the effects of hookah on the user’s body and mind when used frequently and over a long period.
Effects of Hookah on the Body
Hookah, known as a modern smoking innovation that’s currently popular, has side effects on the user’s body. Here are some effects of hookah on the body:
Effects of Hookah on the Respiratory System
Hookah smoke contains various chemicals and particles that can irritate the respiratory tract. When someone inhales hookah smoke, it enters the throat and lungs, where tiny particles and irritants can cause inflammation. This irritation is often marked by symptoms such as coughing, a sore throat, and shortness of breath. Although the water in the hookah base can slightly cool and filter the smoke, many irritants remain, which can exacerbate conditions for those with existing respiratory issues.
Regular use of hookah can increase the risk of developing lung diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema. Hookah smoke contains tar and carcinogens that can accumulate in the lungs and cause lung tissue damage. Over time, this accumulation can reduce lung capacity and impair normal respiratory function, potentially leading to chronic respiratory disorders. Research shows that while the water filtration process reduces some harmful substances, the risk of lung disease remains significant for hookah users.
Cardiovascular Health
Regular hookah smoking can negatively impact blood pressure and overall heart health. Nicotine in hookah smoke can cause an increase in blood pressure due to its vasoconstrictive effects, which narrow the blood vessels. This makes the heart work harder to pump blood through the constricted vessels, potentially leading to hypertension. Frequent hookah use can exacerbate this condition, increasing the risk of more serious heart health issues.
The effects of hookah use are also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Hookah smoke contains harmful substances that can damage the lining of blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can obstruct blood flow. Long-term exposure to hookah smoke may contribute to the development of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease and heart attacks. Studies show that the cardiovascular risk for hookah users is similar to that of conventional cigarette smokers.
Oral and Dental Health of Hookah Users
Hookah use can negatively impact oral health, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum issues. Hookah smoke often contains added sugars from tobacco flavorings, which can contribute to plaque formation and tooth decay. Additionally, regular exposure to smoke can irritate the gums, raising the likelihood of gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Poor oral health from hookah use can lead to more serious dental problems if not properly addressed.
Hookah smoke contains various toxins and carcinogens that can affect oral health. Carbon monoxide, tar, and other harmful chemicals in hookah smoke can adhere to the surfaces of teeth and oral tissues, increasing the risk of tooth damage and oral diseases. Moreover, these substances can disrupt the oral microbiome, leading to infections and inflammation. Repeated exposure to these toxins can worsen overall oral health and requires special attention to mitigate its impact.
Read Also: Shisha Pipe, What Are They and How Do They Function?
Side Effects of Hookah on the Mind and Mental Health
In addition to physical effects, hookah use also has side effects on the mind and mental health if used regularly. Here are some effects of hookah on mental health and well-being:
Nicotine Dependence
Nicotine is the primary addictive substance in hookah that can lead to dependence. When someone smokes hookah, nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs and rapidly reaches the brain. Nicotine stimulates the central nervous system, releasing neurotransmitters like dopamine that create feelings of euphoria and pleasure. Over time, the brain becomes reliant on nicotine to experience these effects, leading to addiction. Nicotine dependence can result in a continuous need to smoke, disrupting the brain’s chemical balance and affecting mood and daily behavior.
Nicotine dependence impacts not only physical health but also mental well-being. Hookah users may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms when they try to reduce or quit smoking, including anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. This addiction can impair an individual’s ability to manage stress and lead to further psychological issues. Additionally, nicotine dependence can exacerbate existing mental health disorders or increase the risk of anxiety and depression, as the body and mind adapt to the addiction.
Psychological Effects of Hookah Use
Hookah use is often associated with a temporary feeling of relaxation. The inhaled smoke can provide a sense of calm and reduce short-term stress due to the soothing effects of nicotine. However, these effects are fleeting and can be misleading, as nicotine dependence can actually increase levels of anxiety and stress in the long term. This dependence creates a cycle where users feel the need to smoke hookah to alleviate stress that is actually caused by the addiction itself.
Sustained hookah use can raise the risk of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Nicotine dependence can disrupt the brain’s chemical balance, potentially worsening existing mental conditions or leading to new disorders. Users may experience sharp mood swings, difficulties with emotional regulation, and feelings of despair when they do not have access to nicotine. Studies indicate a connection between nicotine use and an increased risk of mood disorders, which can affect overall quality of life and psychological well-being.
Sleep Disorders
Nicotine and other substances in hookah can disrupt sleep quality. Nicotine is a stimulant that can lead to difficulties falling asleep, decreased sleep quality, and disturbances in the normal sleep cycle. Smoking hookah, especially before bedtime, can result in trouble falling asleep and reduce the amount of restful sleep. Additionally, the stimulating effects of nicotine can increase nighttime awakenings, impacting the depth and restorative quality of sleep.
Exposure to nicotine and other harmful substances in hookah can cause various sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep-related breathing problems. Nicotine can increase heart rate and blood pressure before sleep, as well as heighten brain activity that interferes with natural sleep processes. The impact of hookah on sleep disorders not only diminishes quality of life but can also affect overall physical and mental health, leading to issues such as fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and poor mood.
Read Also: What’s in Shisha Tobacco? A Deep Dive into Its Ingredients
Pure Coconut Charcoal for Hookah Smoking
One component of hookah smoking is coconut charcoal. Using pure coconut charcoal, free from contaminants and harmful substances, can reduce the negative impacts of hookah use. You can obtain pure coconut charcoal for hookah smoking exclusively from Little Briquette by contacting the admin number here.