How Smoking Causes Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease affects the heart's tissue and blood vessels. According to the Cardiovascular Disease Foundation, one in three people experience some form of heart disease. Smoking is a leading cause of heart disease in the United States. People who smoke have higher chances of developing cardio disease than those who do not.

Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products can decrease the amount of oxygen in the blood. The body's organs depend on oxygenated blood to perform their necessary functions. When the heart cannot pump enough good blood to the organs, they begin to fail. The lack of oxygen and good blood supply also causes many types of cardiovascular diseases and conditions. Many of these conditions form when the arteries, blood vessels and veins become damaged from the poisons found in cigarettes.

Enlarged Heart Muscle

When people smoke, they introduce carbon monoxide into their bodies. Carbon monoxide is a poison that decreases oxygen in the blood. The lungs and brain depend on oxygen to stay healthy and function properly. This also increases the heart's ability to pump blood. Over time, the heart's muscle tissue enlarges from its efforts.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis occurs when fat forms in the arteries and hardens. This causes the vessels to narrow and restrict blood flow. Some people experience pain, or angina, when this happens. Other people may experience myocardial infarction, also called heart attack. Smoking may increase the formation of atherosclerosis by breaking down the arterial walls. It can also cause sections of harden fat to break loose and form clots.

Coronary Heart Disease

The most common and prevalent form of cardiovascular problems is coronary heart disease. Plaque or fatty substances that build up in the coronary arteries cause this disease. It is similar to atherosclerosis except that is affects the major arteries of the heart.