Im having problems concentrating.I find it hard read or think.do you think smoking or drinking is the cause?
105304
Either smoking or drinking can cause difficulty in concentration. There are signs that can tell you which one is causing your particular problem.\n\nSmoking (cigarettes) - Cigarettes and any type of tobacco contains nicotine which is an addictive stimulant. Nicotine can cause any of the following symptoms:\n\nincreased heart rate\nsweating\nirritability\nnervousness\njumpiness\nshaking hands\ninability to focus\nnausea\n\nDrinking (alcohol) - Alcohol on the other hand is a depressant and can cause any of the following symptoms:\n\nloss of fine motor function\nblurred vision\ndifficulty in concentration\nsleepiness\nnausea\n\nSo either can cause difficulty in concentration, but the type of difficulty will indicate where your problem lies. Ask yourself these questions:\n\n1.) Why is it difficult to read? If the words are blurry you can blame alcohol, but if your mind wanders and you cannot concentrate it is probably smoking.\n\n2.) What is my difficulty in concentrating? If your thoughts are slow in coming it is likely an alcohol problem, but if your thoughts jump from subject to subject it is likely smoking.\n\nOnce you've identified the problem, you can work on a solution. I would not recommend the use of any substances while studying, but it is your decision. As you see either can impair your studying.
456117
Very true- the old saying "mind over matter" is not just a saying- studies done on cancer patients have shown a much higher recovery rate among people who use positive visualization than those who don't- So if you get stressed out over something ,even with no underlying health problem, it is entirely possible for you to experience "asthma" type symptoms, or heart palpitations, etc. By the same token, it is just as possible to "cure" these symtoms by using relaxation techniques, etc.
746067
Your glasses, sinus trouble, smoking, drinking & other drugs, also stress & bad diet.
171658
I have the same problem.  I don't think there is anything that you can do.  Maybe get some vitamins (there are ones that are supposed to help with memory and over all mental health).  Without knowing much more about you that is all that I would say.  I think my problem is from smoking too much weed when I was younger.
343210
Try cutting out caffiene for a few days and see if it helps.
48994
Try being a teacher with ADHD... (Yes, Hyperactive.)  I was diagnosed about 10 years ago.  I am coping well.  I still have days that I forget things, have problems paying attention, and overall spacey; but I learned what things could help me concentrate better.  For instance, for me-> I keep a key or a small amount of change in my pocket at all times.  When I am having problems concentrating, I tend to play with the object.  I am not sure how, but it seems to help me focus better.  I promise... it will get better!
1052931
I went to hypnosis August of last year and haven't smoked since.  I was really ready to quit and the hypnotist - a professional, not an entertainer - implanted the idea of anxiety any time I came into contact with the possibility of smoking.  I haven't smoked since.  Two of my workmates were also successful, but many have not been successful.  I think you must really, really want to quit.
413762
Scientists say that the first 72 hours are the worst because the body is going through nicotine withdrawal. So from here on out it's mind versus matter. Can your mind beat out a cigarette or can a small little thing that causes big time illness beat you? Stay busy, and stay focused! Good luck!!
654918
It is usually lack of sleep or increased stress.  Sometimes too much caffeine or nicotine can be the cause.  The technical term is Myokymia.
139691
A friend of a friend of mine (unreliable, I know) had reading comprehension problems.  After a number of tests, they discovered that the problem stemmed from a sort of sensory overload.  The solution was for her to read text through a red filter.  It sounds a little wacky to me, but if it worked, that's kind of cool.  I hope that helps some.
1142355
Sometimes I feel like I'm losing my attention when I read and answer stupid questions.  Not this one, but you know, on Y!Answers, you sure can run into those.\n\nAs far as that goes, it could be you're lacking sleep, not getting enough nutrition...things like that.  Sounds like you're losing concentration for some reason.  Maybe something's not right in your personal life.  You might wanna see a doctor, to be on the safe side.
992269
I've struggled with this problem all my life.  Nothing seems to keep my interest.  It is a serious problem.  In fact boredom can lead to use of drugs, alcohol, etc.  I would say to you and I should take my own advice, to stay busy,  Work a couple of jobs, volunteer your time, or find a hobby.  It's easier said than done though.  Believe me, I know.
1029479
A lack of oxygen to the brain due to hypoxia can cause difficulty in cognitive function.\n\nThe influence of mind altering drugs is the other popular answer.
1184268
I think it is a psychological thing. It is an addiction. Just ask someone who smokes, or drinks how hard it is to quit. You will realize it is an addiction then. I am addicted to food even though I am working on not over eating and only eating when I am hungry.
1181479
Your level of activity. Amount of liquid intake.  These are just a couple of possibilities. And how frequent is "frequent"? Do you have uncontrollable urges or accidents? If so, you had better see a doctor soon.
447903
Try taking Vitamin B-1.  It will help you to concentrate.  About 100mg a day should do it.
114745
Hey I know just how you feel. I am type A personality so i get stressed real bad real fast. I try and find a quite place that i can sit cross legged and place my hands on my knees, I then take deep breaths in thru the nose to the count of ten, hold it for 7, then release it thru my mouth to the count of 10 with my tounge pressed against the roof of my mouth. This helps clear the mind becuase you are concentrating on breathing. All it really is is meditation. Try it and see if it helps.