Nicotine Sickness From Cigars: Signs and How to Avoid It

Nicotine sickness, sometimes called a "nicotine overdose" or being "green," happens when your body absorbs more nicotine than it can handle during a smoke. The signs are sudden dizziness, nausea, sweating, a headache, and a racing heart. It is unpleasant but almost always harmless and passes within an hour. The good news is it is easy to avoid once you know what causes it.

What causes it

Even though you do not inhale a cigar, nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth. Smoke too fast, pick a cigar that is too strong, or light up on an empty stomach and the nicotine builds up quicker than your body can process it. Beginners are most prone because they have low tolerance and often reach for a full-bodied cigar too soon.

Warning signs

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or an upset stomach
• Cold sweats and clammy skin
• Headache and a rapid heartbeat
• A sudden loss of appetite for the cigar

If you feel any of these, stop smoking right away. There is no benefit to pushing through it.

How to recover quickly

Put the cigar down and get some fresh air. Drink water or, better, something with sugar such as juice or a soft drink, since raising your blood sugar counteracts the queasiness fast. Eating something also helps. Sit down, breathe, and wait it out. Most people feel normal again within twenty minutes to an hour.

How to avoid it next time

• Never smoke on an empty stomach: eat a proper meal first.
• Slow your pace: one gentle puff a minute is plenty; smoking too fast is the top cause.
• Match the strength to your tolerance: start mild and work up, using our cigar strength guide.
• Stay hydrated: keep water nearby throughout the smoke.

Where to go next

Strength and pace are the two biggest levers. Learn how to smoke a cigar properly to keep a calm rhythm, understand why you should not inhale cigar smoke, and if you are just starting out, read the beginner's guide and common beginner mistakes.