DEAR DR. ROACH: I have chewed nicotine gum for 15 years with tea or coffee. What are the dangers? — V.B.

ANSWER: Nicotine gum contains nicotine, obviously, and excess nicotine can cause multiple symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, dizziness and headache. It also can be irritating to the lining of the mouth and the tongue, and sometimes can cause irritation to the esophagus.

It is certainly much less dangerous than smoking. However, I still would recommend that you consider getting off of the nicotine gum. You can do that by gradually exchanging the nicotine gum for sugarless gum, or you might even consider using a nicotine patch, gradually reducing the dose. Your doctor can help you.

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Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu or request an order form of available health newsletters at 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803. Health newsletters may be ordered from www.rbmamall.com