Nicotine stimulates the adrenal glands, causing a "kick"—a quick release of glucose accompanied by a rise in blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate. It also stimulates the autonomic nervous system, which controls many parts of the body's anatomy, including the salivary glands, stomach, intestines, pancreas, and prostate. The lungs are another part of the autonomic nervous system. When a person smokes a cigarette, the act of smoking activates certain nerves that go to the chest and shoulder area. These nerves communicate with the lungs, telling them to expand more fully and increase their capacity for oxygen. This is why people who smoke tend to have larger lung areas when they take a deep breath than those who don't. Smoking also causes the sweat glands to work harder, which is why people who smoke often feel hot even though there is no physical cause for this sensation. The increased blood flow to the skin caused by smoking is also why people who smoke look healthier with less facial hair and darker hands and feet. In conclusion, nicotine stimulates the adrenal glands, causing a "kick"—a quick release of glucose accompanied by a rise in blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate.