Why Some Cigars Can Make You Feel Sick — and How to Avoid It
For many cigar lovers, a premium smoke is a moment of relaxation and enjoyment. However, some smokers — even experienced ones — have had that unpleasant experience of feeling sweaty, dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded after smoking. These symptoms are often linked to nicotine strength, tobacco blend composition, smoking pace, and even the time of day you smoke.
Let’s break down the reasons this happens, which cigars are less likely to cause it, and what you can do if it happens to you.
Why Cigars Can Make You Feel Sick
High Nicotine Strength
- Cigars with stronger Ligero leaves in the filler — particularly from regions like Nicaragua, Honduras, or Ligero-heavy Dominican blends — can have a much higher nicotine concentration.
- Full-bodied cigars, especially those labeled “double ligero” or “full strength”, deliver a faster, stronger nicotine hit.
Dark, Oily Wrappers
Wrappers such as Maduro, Oscuro, or Broadleaf add rich flavors but also carry more nicotine than lighter Connecticut Shade or Claro wrappers.
Smoking on an Empty Stomach
Without food in your system, nicotine is absorbed more quickly, intensifying symptoms.
Smoking Too Fast
Puffing too frequently overheats the tobacco, increases nicotine release, and may cause accidental inhalation.
The Role of Time of Day in Cigar Strength
Morning Smokes
- Your body’s nicotine tolerance is usually at its lowest after sleep.
- A full-bodied, dark-wrapper cigar first thing in the morning — especially on an empty stomach — can overwhelm you quickly.
- If pairing with coffee, choose a milder Connecticut Shade or Claro wrapper to complement the drink without overloading nicotine. Try our House Cigar (GAL) Connecticut Toro for a smooth start to the day.
Afternoon Smokes
- After lunch, your body can better handle a medium-bodied cigar such as a Habano or medium Maduro.
- This is a good time for a Robusto or small Toro if you want more flavor but still want to avoid nicotine sickness. A great choice is the Macanudo M Bourbon Toro.
Evening Smokes
- After dinner is the ideal time for full-bodied cigars with Maduro, Oscuro, or Broadleaf wrappers.
- At this point, your nicotine tolerance is higher, and the food in your stomach slows absorption.
- This is when you might enjoy a Toro, Churchill, or even a Gordo — just keep your pace slow. The Reposado Estate Colorado Robusto is a fine evening option.
Does Cigar Size Matter?
Yes — more tobacco equals more nicotine:
- Robusto (5 x 50) – Great balance for most smokers; enough flavor without excessive nicotine.
- Toro (6 x 52) – Ideal for a longer, more relaxed session, but may be too strong if full-bodied and smoked early in the day.
- Gordo (6 x 60+) – Large ring gauge with heavy filler; best for seasoned smokers in the evening.
- Lancero (7+ x 38) – Delivers more wrapper-to-filler flavor but can still hit hard if the blend is strong.
If you’re sensitive to nicotine, avoid starting the day with a Toro, Gordo, or double ligero blend. Instead, opt for a smaller ring gauge and milder wrapper. Read more in our Cigar Size Guide.
Common Symptoms of Nicotine Overload (“Nicotine Sickness”)
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Increased heart rate
- Headache
- Weakness or fatigue
Wrappers, Fillers & Binders Less Likely to Cause Nicotine Overload
- Connecticut Shade Wrapper – Light, creamy, and lower in nicotine.
- Claro or Natural Wrapper – Mild and smooth.
- Dominican Seco or Volado Filler – Less potent than ligero-heavy blends.
- Cuban-seed tobacco grown in milder climates – Lower nicotine impact.
- Shorter Length or Thinner Gauge – Less tobacco overall.
Remedies if a Cigar Is Too Strong
- Stop Smoking Immediately
- Eat Something Sweet – Chocolate or candy works quickly.
- Drink a Sugary Beverage – Cola, juice, or sweetened tea.
- Sit or Lie Down – Prevent dizziness or fainting.
- Fresh Air – Breathe slowly and deeply.
Pro Tips to Prevent Nicotine Sickness
- Eat a light meal before smoking.
- Choose milder blends for morning smokes.
- Smoke slowly; let the cigar rest between puffs.
- Avoid inhaling — cigars are for savoring.
- Pair strong cigars with sweet drinks to balance nicotine’s effects.
External Resource: Learn more about tobacco leaves