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Why did I faint after smoking only two cigarettes?

I went to a camp for almost a week, and the whole time smoked half a pack a day. After this i didn't smoke for a week and a half. So yesterday I went out with some friends, we went to a hookah bar smoked a bit then went to buy some cigarettes. This whole time we were outside but it started getting cold so we asked to move inside the bar. Inside was a lot warmer. I smoked two cigs when all of a sudden I began to feel really hot. I asked for a glass of water and went to the bathroom. When I got up I felt dizzy and when I reached the bathroom and tried opening the door my arms and legs started to shake and my vision blacked and I fell backwards. I don't know if this counts as fainting or not. A couple of seconds later  some staff from the bar helped me up I washed my face to cool down, drank some water and left. On my way home my vision was still a little black around the edges and I still felt really hot. I got some cold water and drank almost the whole bottle and started feeling better
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20841821 tn?1547942964
Specialmom is right on point. Smoking induces a baroreflex reaction which can cause both neurally mediated syncope as well as vasovagal syncope. Syncope is just a fancy word for fainting. Although you just smoke in social situations, it seems your body doesn't like it. I know a hookah bar is fun with your friends, but maybe bow out of smoking and see how you feel. Best of luck to you!
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I researched both neurally mediated syncope  and vasovagal  syncope. I think the first thing is what likely happened. Big thanks for answering.
973741 tn?1342342773
Nicotine is well known for causing dizziness.  Smoking also involves constriction of your blood vessels and this can cause less oxygen going to your brain.  (syncope is the result).  Smoking is one of those things in which people know the risks but don't think much of them. This is a reminder that nicotine is a drug and affects your body.  You sound like a very casual smoker.  Which is good.  
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Thank you for your answer!  I definitely am planing on quitting smoking completely, so now I have another great reason to do it.
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way off the beaten track!, BC
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