Coughing is a natural physiological response to irritants or obstructions in the respiratory system. It serves as a protective mechanism to clear the airways and remove foreign particles. While coughing itself does not induce a state of being "high," there are instances where coughing can result in temporary alterations in consciousness or feelings of lightheadedness. However, it is crucial to differentiate between these effects and the experience of being high from substances such as drugs or alcohol. Does Coughing Make You Higher, we will explore the reasons behind cough-induced sensations and dispel any misconceptions related to feeling high from coughing.
The Mechanism of Coughing:
Before delving into the potential effects of coughing, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms of this reflex. Coughing typically occurs when the nerve endings in the respiratory tract are stimulated, triggering a series of coordinated actions. These actions involve the contraction of respiratory muscles, closure of the glottis (a part of the larynx), and a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. This forceful expulsion aims to clear the airways of irritants, excess mucus, or foreign objects.
Sensations Associated with Coughing:
While coughing primarily serves a practical purpose, it can sometimes lead to certain sensations that may be mistaken for feeling high. These sensations arise due to the physiological changes that occur during coughing episodes, such as increased pressure in the thoracic cavity and altered blood flow dynamics. The following are some common sensations experienced during intense coughing:
Lightheadedness:
Coughing vigorously can temporarily decrease blood flow to the brain, leading to a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness. This occurs due to the increased pressure in the thoracic cavity, which affects venous return and subsequently reduces blood flow to the brain. However, this sensation is transient and typically resolves once the coughing subsides.
Oxygen deprivation:
During a prolonged or severe coughing fit, it is possible to experience a temporary decrease in blood oxygen levels. Reduced oxygen levels can lead to symptoms like light-headedness, shortness of breath, or an overall sense of altered consciousness. However, it is important to note that these effects are caused by decreased oxygen availability and not by any psychoactive substances.
Vagal response:
The vagus nerve plays a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate and blood pressure. Intense coughing can stimulate the vagus nerve, triggering a vagal response. This response may result in a drop in heart rate, a decrease in blood pressure, or even a momentary pause in the heartbeat. These physiological changes can create a unique sensation, which may be mistakenly associated with feeling high.
Differentiating Between Coughing Effects and Being High:
It is crucial to differentiate the physiological effects of coughing from the experience of being high. Feeling high typically refers to the altered state of consciousness induced by substances like drugs or alcohol. Being high involves psychoactive effects on the brain, leading to euphoria, altered perception, changes in cognition, and other subjective experiences.
Coughing-induced sensations, on the other hand, are temporary and related to the physical response of the body during intense coughing episodes. While these sensations may be uncomfortable or disorienting, they lack the characteristic psychological or neurological effects associated with being high.
Conclusion:
Coughing itself does not make a person high, as the term "high" typically refers to the altered state of consciousness induced by psychoactive substances. Although coughing can lead to temporary sensations such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and altered blood flow, these effects are the result of physiological changes within the body and not due to any psychoactive substances.
It is important to differentiate between these sensations and the experience of being high from drugs or alcohol. If you are concerned about the effects of coughing or experience persistent coughing fits, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
In summary, coughing is a natural reflex aimed at clearing the airways, and while it can lead to temporary sensations, it does not induce a state of being high.
Comments