May 15th, 2009 09:44

Smoking cause High Blood Pressure

Smoking tobacco products can increase blood pressure by 5 to 10 mm Hg during the day, said doctors. High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes the heart work harder than needed and hardens the arterial walls.

But persons with hypertension are greatly advised to quit smoking as it can cause further hardening of the arteries and can lead to heart attacks. But scientists didn’t find a direct link between smoking and the increase of high blood pressure.

Cigarettes contain both nicotine and carbon monoxide both of which are proved to be highly dangerous substances, yet people continue to put these unhealthy "sticks" into their mouth and inhale the toxic fumes into their body.

But a recent study found that nicotine together with cholesterol and other fat deposits contribute to the hardening of the arteries, which develops through the years, poor blood circulation and blood clots lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attacks.

Researchers also found that nicotine has the tendency to constrict blood vessels and arteries, which can cause plaque build-up leading to blood clots.

When smoke is inhaled, the smoker also inhales carbon monoxide, which decreases the oxygen supply of the heart, brain and other vital organs.

Nicotine has the ability to stimulate the production of the hormone adrenaline, which causes blood vessels to constrict. Constricted blood vessels are one of the factors in peripheral resistance.

In some, alcohol raises blood pressure and heavy drinkers tend to have hypertension. Alcohol consumption should be limited to a drink a day. But smoking should be eliminated completely.

Because tobacco can include elements and compounds that contribute to the hardening of the arteries and the nicotine in cigarettes can cause blood vessels to contract, increasing the risks associated with high blood pressure.