Smoking cigars is often seen as a relaxing, slow-paced activity. But when it’s done too quickly, it can result in a condition known as cigar sickness—an uncomfortable reaction caused by consuming too much nicotine. If you’ve ever felt nauseous, dizzy, or lightheaded after smoking, you’re not alone. Here, we’ll explore what causes this reaction, how to prevent it, and most importantly, how to get rid of a cigar buzz if it hits you unexpectedly.
What is Cigar Sickness?
Cigar sickness is essentially nicotine sickness, caused by the body’s reaction to an overdose of nicotine. Since cigars often contain significantly more nicotine than cigarettes, the symptoms can set in more intensely. Common symptoms include nausea, headaches, dizziness, cold sweats, and even vomiting. In extreme cases, people feel the effects of a "cigar hangover," marked by lingering discomfort hours after smoking. But can cigars make you sick? Absolutely—especially if you smoke too fast or too much.
Causes of Cigar Sickness
One of the primary causes of feeling sick after smoking a cigar is puffing too quickly. When you smoke rapidly, the nicotine enters your bloodstream at a higher rate than your body can handle. The nausea after a cigar is especially common among first-time or inexperienced smokers who may not yet know how to pace themselves. Additionally, stronger cigars with a higher nicotine content can lead to more intense symptoms, especially when smoked on an empty stomach.
Another common cause of sick from a cigar is inhaling the smoke, which increases nicotine absorption. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are not meant to be inhaled deeply. Doing so can flood your system with nicotine, leading to cigar sickness symptoms like dizziness and nausea.
The Importance of Pace in Smoking Cigars
To avoid getting cigar sickness, it’s crucial to pace yourself. Ideally, you should take one puff every 30 to 60 seconds. This slower smoking pace allows your body to absorb nicotine gradually, reducing the risk of nausea or dizziness. Think of smoking a cigar like sipping a fine whiskey—it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly. Smoking too fast not only increases the chance of feeling sick from a cigar, but it also burns the tobacco too hot, making the flavor harsh and unpleasant.
How Long Does Cigar Nausea Last?
If you’ve ever wondered, "how long does cigar nausea last?" the answer depends on the severity of your nicotine intake. For mild cases, the symptoms may subside within 30 minutes to an hour. However, if you’ve smoked a strong cigar too fast, the effects could linger for several hours, leaving you with a cigar hangover feeling. In extreme cases, some people experience dizziness, nausea, and headaches well into the next day.
How to Prevent Cigar Sickness
To prevent feeling sick after a cigar, it’s essential to follow a few basic guidelines:
- Smoke slowly: As mentioned, a slow pace is your best defense against cigar sickness.
- Eat before smoking: A full stomach helps your body handle the nicotine better. Smoking on an empty stomach makes it more likely that you’ll get sick from a cigar.
- Choose milder cigars: If you’re new to smoking or don’t have a high nicotine tolerance, start with milder cigars. This helps your body adjust without overwhelming it.
What to Do if You Experience Cigar Sickness
If you’re already feeling unwell, you’re probably wondering how to cure cigar sickness. First and foremost, stop smoking. Continuing will only make the symptoms worse. One of the quickest remedies is sugar. Does sugar help nicotine sickness? Yes, consuming sugar can help balance the effects of nicotine. Try putting a sugar packet on your tongue or sipping on a sugary drink like juice(
Here’s a quick guide on how to get rid of a cigar buzz:
- Stop smoking: Immediately stop smoking the cigar.
- Sugar intake: Try consuming sugar, as it can help combat the nicotine in your system.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or a sports drink to help flush out the nicotine.
- Get fresh air: Step outside or into a well-ventilated space.
- Eat something: A light snack can help reduce the nausea and discomfort.
Smoking Cigars for Enjoyment, Not the Buzz
Cigars are meant to be savored, not rushed. When you smoke too fast, not only are you more likely to get cigar sickness, but you also miss out on the true flavor and aroma of the cigar. Slowing down allows you to fully appreciate the complexity of the tobacco and enjoy the experience for what it is—a relaxing pastime. If you smoke with the sole aim of getting a buzz, you’re more likely to experience feeling sick after a cigar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, smoking a cigar too quickly can lead to an unpleasant case of cigar sickness. By pacing yourself, eating beforehand, and choosing the right cigar strength, you can avoid feeling sick and enjoy your cigar experience to the fullest. If you do get sick from a cigar, the cigar sickness cure is simple: stop smoking, take some sugar, hydrate, and let time pass. Remember, cigars are about pleasure, not pain, so slow down and savor the experience.
