Much has been researched and written about the effects of tobacco on the heart and the lungs and the benefits of staying away from it. But not much is understood about the effects of smoking on the brain. Researchers at Washington School of Medicine, USA have found that the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease wherein there is an early degeneration of the fuctions of the brain like memory, abstract thinking etc. is more in people who are into the habit of smoking.
The neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimers occur when there is an accumulation of plaques in the brain. The growth of these can be explained with genetics when there is a similar history in the family. Also the volume of the brain seems to shrink with age. But tobacco smoking causes early ageing as it decreases the volume of the brain early in life. Sad part is that it is irreversible and whatever can be done is only to prevent further loss.
Having said that tobacco can cause contriction of the blood vessels of the smaller and fine capillaries that supply to the deep parts of the brain. The deprived nourishment of the peripheries of the brain can lead to gradual shrinking and that explains early ageing.
Keeping away from smoking is primary and getting rid of the habit is of great importance to prevent further damage. Where there is a will of the patient; homeopathy has good remedies that can help the patient get over the withdrawal effects and also reduce craving. Tabacum, Caladium, Nux vomica are a few remedies that have been found to be of good help.
