Because
smoking tobacco makes it difficult for the bloodstream to carry
oxygen to the body’s tissues, it contributes to a feeling of
fatigue. Recent studies have indicated that tobacco users
suffer more frequently from symptoms associated with chronic fatigue
syndrome, including anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, than do
lifelong nonsmokers (although clinical research has not yet
established a causal link). Headaches are also a common
problem for smokers, since tobacco use raises blood pressure,
inflames sinuses and nasal passages, and increases the risk of
stroke and heart disease, all of which are associated with
headaches. A
news brief in the May 16, 1868 issue
of Harper’s Weekly
cited a famous (though unnamed)
writer who, after giving up a thirty-year smoking habit, had fewer
headaches and more vigor.
He also testified to being more cheerful and better able to endure
the difficult times in life. He concluded emphatically, “It
does not pay to smoke; but more decidedly it pays to stop smoking.”
Another literary man,
in the February 2, 1885 issue,
admitted that his smoking habit
was demoralizing, leaving him tired and with headaches.
During periods of nonsmoking, his headaches and weariness
disappeared. |
|
|
|
Harper's Weekly References |
|
1)
May 16, 1868, p. 315, c. 4
former smoker attests to renewed vigor. He concludes, “It did not
pay to smoke; but most decidedly it pays to stop smoking.”
2)
February 7, 1885, p. 83, c. 3
“Personal” column, habitual cigar smoking induces headaches and
weariness |
|
|
|
Sources Consulted |
|
“Frequently Asked Questions,”
Cancerfatigue.org,
http://www.cancerfatigue.org/ask/faq.php?faq_category_id=1
Jay, Stephen J., M.D., letter to the
Journal of the American Medical Association, vol. 285,
no. 11, March 21, 2001,
http://jama.ama-assn.org/issues/v285n11/ffull/jlt0321-3.html
Robert, Teri, “Smoking and
Headaches: Another Reason to Quit,” About.com,
http://headaches.about.com/library/weekly/aa110700a.htm |
|
|