You already know that smoking is a hazard to your health. But did you know that the lungs aren’t the only part of the body that cigarettes can harm? The nicotine you are exposed to through smoking or vaping can hurt your heart too.
Nicotine is a chemical found in cigarettes and e-cigarettes (as well as other devices used for vaping). It is a toxic substance that is highly addictive. Nicotine can:
- Raise blood pressure
- Spike adrenaline
- Increase heart rate
- Narrow arteries
- Constrict blood flow
- Cause hardening of the arterial walls
The changes caused by nicotine can put you at increased risk for a heart attack.
There is a perception that vaping is better for you than smoking. You may be exposed to fewer chemicals through vaping compared with smoking. That said, vaping still exposes the body to many chemicals. Many chemicals used in vaping haven’t been fully researched and are likely to be dangerous as well. What’s more, vaping still exposes you to nicotine, which is highly addictive and problematic in and of itself.
Your best bet when it comes to smoking and heart health? Quitting! You’ll save money and increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life. Here are some tools that can help you on your journey.