Short-Term Effects of Smoking: Heart Rate & Blood Pressure

1. Increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure

Smoking increases the release of adrenaline, which causes your heart rate and blood pressure to rise. This can put extra strain on your heart and lead to heart problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.

2. Increased risk of blood clots

Smoking damages the cells that line your blood vessels, which can make it easier for blood clots to form. Blood clots can block blood flow to your heart, lungs, brain, and other organs, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms.