Hi, I suffer from recurring depression. Over the past year, I've noticed an increase in certain flu-like symptoms such as a chronic sore throat, fatigue, food intolerances etc. I haven't formally been diagnosed with an infection and it's hard to know if these are just the result of increased inflammation/depressed immunity from my mood disorder.

Anyway, I tend to find that nicotine (in the form of gum, lozenges) is very helpful for my concentration. I use 3-5 pieces a week. If indeed I am experiencing some underlying infection, would nicotine be unwise to use in this context? What are its general effects on immunity like?