Effects of Smoking on Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

Effects from smoking on the Circulatory System 

• Raised blood pressure and heart rate

• Constriction (tightening) of blood vessels in the skin, resulting in a drop in skin temperature

• Less oxygen carried by the blood

• Stickier blood, which is more prone to clotting

• Damage to the lining of the arteries, which is thought to be a contributing factor to atherosclerosis (the build-up of fatty deposits on the artery walls)

• Reduced blood flow to extremities like fingers and toes

• Increased risk of stroke and heart attack due to blockages of the blood supply.