Does Smoking Cause Heart Attacks?
August 30, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, smoking is a major risk factor for heart attacks. Smoking tobacco, whether through cigarettes, cigars, or other forms, significantly increases the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks.
The harmful effects of smoking on the cardiovascular system are well-documented. Smoking damages blood vessels, causes inflammation, and leads to the buildup of plaque inside arteries (atherosclerosis). This buildup narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart muscle, which can result in angina (chest pain) or even a heart attack.
Smoking also contributes to other cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall health. Within a short time after quitting, the body starts to heal, and the risk of heart attacks and other health problems associated with smoking begins to decrease.
If you’re a smoker and concerned about your heart health, it’s strongly recommended to quit smoking and seek support from healthcare professionals or smoking cessation programs.