Why do nicotine pouches hurt?
Philip Plainstein
If you’ve tried nicotine pouches, you might feel some discomfort or irritation. This mouth ache can come from different things in these products. Nicotine pouches are seen as safer than regular tobacco, but they have a lot of nicotine.
They usually have between 1.79 to 47.5 milligrams of nicotine per pouch. The pH level is about 8.8. And most of the nicotine is in a free-base form, which can make your mouth feel worse.
It’s important to know why you might feel this way. This helps you make better choices about using nicotine pouches. We’ll look at what’s in these pouches and how they might affect you. This will help you understand the health risks.
Understanding Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches are a new way to get nicotine without smoke. They are not real tobacco but have synthetic nicotine and flavours. This makes them a safer choice for many.
These pouches come in many flavours, attracting young people. About 16% of 15-24 year olds use them. Sadly, 73% of users also smoke cigarettes.
Nicotine pouches can have 1 to 12 milligrams of nicotine. This lets users pick their nicotine level. But, using them a lot can harm your health.
Even though they seem safer, nicotine pouches can be harmful. A study found 26 out of 44 pouches had cancer-causing substances. Also, rules for these products are not strict, hiding important information.
| Age Group | Reported Use of Nicotine Pouches | Current Users | Overlap with Cigarette Smoking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15-24 years | 16% | 12% | 73% |
| Overall | Varies | Significant | Common |
Knowing what’s in nicotine pouches helps users make better choices. It’s key to understand the difference between these and real tobacco.
How Nicotine Pouches Work
Nicotine pouches are a new way to get nicotine without tobacco. They are small, pillow-shaped and have nicotine, cellulose, and flavours. You put them between your gum and lip for quick nicotine.
Using them feels like a tingling or warming in your mouth. This feeling shows the nicotine is working. It can last a few minutes or until you take it out.
Many like them because they don’t smell. You can use them anywhere without anyone noticing. This makes them great for work, buses, or home.
Brands like ZYN and VELO have different nicotine levels. You can start with a low level if you’re new. This makes using them more fun.
Knowing how nicotine pouches work helps you use them wisely. People use them differently. Some use a few a day, others more. They are a good choice for managing nicotine in a simple way.
Why do nicotine pouches hurt
Nicotine pouches can hurt because of the chemicals in them. They have powdered nicotine and flavourings. These help deliver nicotine but can irritate the mouth, more so for those who are sensitive.
Chemicals in Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine is very addictive and can cause physical feelings when absorbed. Putting nicotine pouches in your mouth can be uncomfortable. Some flavours, like strong mint, can make mouth sensitivity worse.
There’s synthetic nicotine in them too. This means some people might have allergic reactions. This can make irritation and discomfort worse.
Physical Sensations Experienced
People feel everything from a little tingling to more serious irritation. Starting with a lower nicotine level can help you get used to it. Higher levels can make irritation in gums and mouth worse.
Using them for a long time can make your mouth sore and gums sensitive. Knowing this can help you enjoy them less painfully.
Common Side Effects of Nicotine Pouch Use
Nicotine pouches are getting more popular. But, it’s important to know the side effects. They can affect your mouth and overall health.
Mouth and Gum Irritation
Many people get mouth and gum irritation from nicotine pouches. This is because of the chemicals in them. It can cause soreness or even pain.
It’s important to watch your mouth health. Too much use can harm your teeth and gums. Drinking water and using fewer pouches can help.
Dental Health Concerns
Long-term use of nicotine pouches can harm your teeth. It might cause gum disease or receding gums. Some people get dry mouth and sore throats.
This can make mouth irritation worse. If you have these problems, see a dentist. They can help keep your mouth healthy.
Comparing Nicotine Pouches to Other Products
Nicotine products have grown a lot, with new options like nicotine pouches. Brands like Zyn, On!, and Velo are popular. They offer a different way to get nicotine, not like smoking or vaping.
Nicotine pouches don’t have tobacco leaves. This means they don’t have as many harmful chemicals as burning tobacco. They might be safer than smoking. But, the FDA doesn’t check them as closely as traditional tobacco.
Experts say nicotine pouches might not help you quit nicotine. They can cause mouth problems and nausea. It’s better to try approved ways to stop nicotine, like patches or gum.
Nicotine pouches are getting more popular, with sales going up a lot. This shows people are looking for smoke-free ways to get nicotine. Both vaping and pouches have their own ups and downs.
Want to know more about nicotine pouches? Check out this resource. It can help you understand the choices better.
The Role of Nicotine Strength in Discomfort
Choosing the right nicotine strength is key for a good experience with nicotine pouches. They come in many strengths, from 1.29 mg to over 47 mg. This range meets different user needs.
If you’re new, start with a lower strength to avoid discomfort. Those who used to smoke a lot might prefer higher strengths. But, be careful not to use too much, as it can cause irritation or nausea, known as “ZYN burn.”
It might take some tries to find the right strength for you. Pay attention to how your body reacts. Keeping your mouth clean and changing where you put the pouch can make it better. Always think about your comfort to enjoy nicotine pouches safely.
Potential Allergic Reactions to Ingredients
Nicotine pouches are getting more popular. Sales went from 126.06 million units in 2019 to 808.14 million units in 2022. This rise has brought up worries about allergic reactions to ingredients.
These reactions can cause a lot of discomfort. It’s important to know about possible allergens. A study found 186 ingredients in these pouches, including three that could cause cancer.
Identifying Allergens
When thinking about using nicotine pouches, look at the ingredient list carefully. Some common allergens, like flavourings or additives, can be risky. Without FDA rules, products might not list all allergens, raising the risk of allergic reactions.
Most pouches are 80-90% water and microcrystalline cellulose. But the other parts can also cause problems. Knowing what’s in them can help avoid bad reactions. For more on allergic reactions, check out Healthline.
Long-Term Health Implications of Using Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches are seen as safer smoking alternatives. But, it’s key to know the health implications of using them for a long time. They don’t have as many harmful chemicals as regular tobacco. Yet, they do have nicotine, which can be addictive.
Studies show that long-term use can harm your teeth. You might get gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth decay. This is because nicotine can make your mouth dry.
People using nicotine pouches can take in a lot of nicotine. Some use up to 20 pouches a day. This can hurt your mouth, just like smoking does. Some chemicals in these products are bad for you, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The use of nicotine pouches is growing, and it’s a worry. Young people might start using them, leading to a lifelong nicotine addiction. So, we need to keep studying how these products affect our health. For more info, check out understanding nicotine pouch effects.
