{"id":11165,"date":"2025-08-27T22:29:43","date_gmt":"2025-08-27T19:29:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/"},"modified":"2025-09-02T13:50:42","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T10:50:42","slug":"sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/","title":{"rendered":"Cardiovascular Effects of Smoking and Smoking Cessation"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoking has a profound impact on vascular health, accelerating atherosclerosis and significantly increasing the risk of peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Toxic substances in cigarettes damage the endothelium and promote plaque formation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, raises blood pressure, and increases heart rate, leading to higher cardiovascular strain. Additionally, carbon monoxide reduces oxygen delivery to tissues, further aggravating vascular dysfunction and ischemia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The risk of vascular complications rises with the duration and intensity of smoking. Even light or occasional smoking contributes to endothelial injury, meaning there is no safe level of tobacco exposure for vascular health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoking cessation improves circulation, reduces clotting risk, and slows progression of vascular disease. Medical support through nicotine replacement therapy, behavioral counseling, and pharmacologic aids greatly increases success rates in quitting.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Yaz\u0131 \u0130\u00e7eri\u011fi<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#How_does_smoking_impair_our_overall_vascular_health\" >How does smoking impair our overall vascular health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Which_chemicals_in_cigarette_smoke_are_dangerous_for_vascular_health\" >Which chemicals in cigarette smoke are dangerous for vascular health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#How_does_smoking_predispose_to_atherosclerosis_also_known_as_arteriosclerosis\" >How does smoking predispose to atherosclerosis, also known as arteriosclerosis?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Why_does_smoking_increase_the_risk_of_coronary_artery_disease\" >Why does smoking increase the risk of coronary artery disease?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#How_does_smoking_trigger_the_risk_of_stroke\" >How does smoking trigger the risk of stroke?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#What_is_the_role_of_smoking_in_peripheral_arterial_disease_that_blocks_the_leg_arteries\" >What is the role of smoking in peripheral arterial disease that blocks the leg arteries?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#What_is_the_link_between_aortic_aneurysm_enlargement_of_the_main_artery_and_smoking\" >What is the link between aortic aneurysm (enlargement of the main artery) and smoking?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Is_the_rare_Buergers_disease_related_to_smoking\" >Is the rare Buerger&#8217;s disease related to smoking?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#How_does_smoking_damage_vascular_disease\" >How does smoking damage vascular disease?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_affect_blood_circulation\" >Does smoking affect blood circulation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Why_does_smoking_increase_clot_formation\" >Why does smoking increase clot formation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#What_is_the_relationship_between_atherosclerosis_and_smoking\" >What is the relationship between atherosclerosis and smoking?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_cause_cardiovascular_disease\" >Does smoking cause cardiovascular disease?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_cause_peripheral_artery_disease\" >Does smoking cause peripheral artery disease?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_also_affect_the_brain_vessels\" >Does smoking also affect the brain vessels?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_secondhand_smoke_affect_vascular_health\" >Does secondhand smoke affect vascular health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_vascular_occlusion_in_smokers_start_at_an_early_age\" >Does vascular occlusion in smokers start at an early age?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_cause_vasodilation\" >Does smoking cause vasodilation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_quitting_smoking_improve_blood_vessels\" >Does quitting smoking improve blood vessels?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Do_electronic_cigarettes_damage_vascular_health\" >Do electronic cigarettes damage vascular health?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Does_smoking_affect_vascular_surgery\" >Does smoking affect vascular surgery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#Why_is_it_dangerous_for_someone_with_vascular_disease_to_smoke\" >Why is it dangerous for someone with vascular disease to smoke?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/sigara-icmenin-damar-hastaliklarindaki-etkisi\/#How_does_quitting_smoking_affect_vascular_health\" >How does quitting smoking affect vascular health?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_smoking_impair_our_overall_vascular_health\"><\/span><b>How does smoking impair our overall vascular health?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think of it this way: The inner surface of our arteries is covered with a smooth, slippery and protective layer, like a Teflon pan. We call this layer the &#8220;endothelium&#8221; and its job is to keep the blood flowing without sticking or clotting. When we inhale cigarette smoke, thousands of toxic chemicals begin to sand this smooth surface. This sensitive lining is scratched, worn and loses its protection. This is where the first step towards vascular diseases is taken.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once this damage begins, a cascade of negative events triggers one another. The &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol in our body (LDL) adheres much more easily to these rough and damaged surfaces. The body recognizes this as a danger and sends inflammatory cells to the area for repair. However, as you continue to smoke, this inflammation becomes constant and turns into a battle rather than a repair. As a result, deposits of fat, cholesterol and inflammatory cells, called &#8220;plaque&#8221;, begin to form on the vessel wall.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This process does not stop there. Smoking also changes the chemistry of our blood. The blood becomes darker and more &#8220;sticky&#8221; than it should be. Platelets, the cells that make blood clot, begin to clump together more easily and form clots. Even a tiny clot in a narrowed and plaque-covered artery can completely stop blood flow and cause a heart attack or stroke. In other words, while smoking narrows the arteries and lining them with plaque, it also makes the blood passing through the narrowed area ready to clot. This is literally a disaster scenario for vascular health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_chemicals_in_cigarette_smoke_are_dangerous_for_vascular_health\"><\/span><b>Which chemicals in cigarette smoke are dangerous for vascular health?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cigarette smoke is a toxic soup of chemicals. It contains more than 7000 substances, hundreds of which are directly toxic. It is worth recognizing the main culprits that pose the greatest threat to our vascular health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicotine Nicotine, the addictive face of cigarettes, is also the secret enemy of our blood vessels. The first thing it does as soon as it enters the bloodstream is to suddenly shrink the vessels, that is, to narrow them. This immediately raises blood pressure. The heart has to work harder to push the blood through the narrowed tubes. It also increases the heart rate and increases the oxygen demand of the heart. So on the one hand, it constricts the oxygen-carrying pathways, and on the other, it makes the engine demand more fuel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbon Monoxide: This poisonous gas, which we also know from car exhaust, fills our lungs with cigarette smoke. It sticks to the red blood cells (hemoglobin) responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood and steals the place of oxygen. As the oxygen carrying capacity of our blood decreases, our heart has to work harder to send enough oxygen to the tissues. In the long term, this can even lead to an enlarged heart.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Free Radicals and Oxidants: Cigarette smoke contains billions of free radicals that create &#8220;oxidative stress&#8221; in our bodies. You can think of oxidative stress as rusting metal. These substances directly attack the delicate endothelial cells in the lining of our blood vessels, wearing them down and triggering the inflammatory process.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other Toxins There are some other dangerous substances in smoke that we often associate with cancer.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzene<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arsenic<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Formaldehyde<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cadmium<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These substances indirectly worsen vascular health by creating a general toxic load and inflammatory environment in the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_smoking_predispose_to_atherosclerosis_also_known_as_arteriosclerosis\"><\/span><b>How does smoking predispose to atherosclerosis, also known as arteriosclerosis?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atherosclerosis, or atherosclerosis, does not happen overnight. It is a process that progresses silently over years, characterized by the build-up of plaque on the vessel walls. Smoking is the primary factor that initiates and incredibly accelerates this process. Let&#8217;s take a step-by-step look at the role of smoking in the pathway to atherosclerosis.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initial Injury Endothelial Injury: It all starts, as we mentioned earlier, when the slippery inner lining of the blood vessels (the endothelium) is injured by the toxins in cigarette smoke. This protective shield is deactivated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inflammatory Response: The body sends white blood cells (inflammatory cells) to the area to repair the injury. These cells stick to the damaged area.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cholesterol Accumulation: Because of the balance of blood fats disturbed by smoking, &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol (LDL) circulating in the blood easily seeps into this damaged and inflamed area and begins to build up in the vessel wall.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plaque Formation: Over time, accumulated cholesterol, inflammatory cells and other cellular waste combine to form a structure called &#8220;plaque&#8221;. This plaque gradually begins to narrow the vessel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dangerous plaques: Smoking also weakens the thin capsule over these plaques. An &#8220;unstable&#8221; plaque with a weakened capsule is ready to burst like a pimple. When the plaque ruptures, the body recognizes this as bleeding and quickly forms a clot to stop the blood. This clot completely blocks the already narrow vessel, cutting off blood flow and leading to disasters such as heart attack or stroke.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you can see, smoking plays an active role in each link of this deadly chain.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_does_smoking_increase_the_risk_of_coronary_artery_disease\"><\/span><b>Why does smoking increase the risk of coronary artery disease?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The heart needs special vessels called &#8220;coronary arteries&#8221; to supply its muscle tissue. Coronary artery disease is the narrowing or blockage of these vital vessels due to atherosclerosis. Smoking is the strongest and most preventable cause of this disease. A smoker is 2 to 4 times more likely to have a heart attack than a non-smoker.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The evil that smoking does to the heart is double-acting. On the one hand, it reduces the amount of blood and oxygen reaching the heart by lining the coronary arteries with plaque and constricting the vessels. On the other hand, the stimulating effect of nicotine makes the heart beat faster and require more oxygen. In other words, it constricts the fuel pipe of the engine and at the same time creates an effect like pressing the gas pedal to the floor. This imbalance causes the heart muscle to become deprived of oxygen (ischemia) and leads to attacks of chest pain (angina). When the process progresses, the result is the death of part of the heart muscle &#8211; a heart attack.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_smoking_trigger_the_risk_of_stroke\"><\/span><b>How does smoking trigger the risk of stroke?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A stroke is damage to brain tissue caused by blocked or bleeding brain vessels. The consequences can range from permanent disability to death. Smoking is one of the main actors in this devastating event. The risk of stroke in smokers is 2 to 4 times higher than in non-smokers. In fact, the risk of a pack-a-day smoker can be up to 6 times higher than a non-smoker:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are several main ways in which smoking can trigger a stroke.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It accelerates the development of atherosclerosis in the main arteries that supply the brain (such as the carotid artery) and in smaller vessels inside the brain, just as it does in the arteries of the heart.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It makes the blood more prone to clotting. These clots either form directly in a blood vessel in the brain or break off from the heart or jugular vein and travel with the blood flow to the brain, blocking a blood vessel there.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This raises blood pressure and increases the risk of cerebral hemorrhage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is important to remember that even passive smoking increases the risk of stroke by -30%.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_role_of_smoking_in_peripheral_arterial_disease_that_blocks_the_leg_arteries\"><\/span><b>What is the role of smoking in peripheral arterial disease that blocks the leg arteries?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Peripheral arterial disease is a narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the legs, usually due to arteriosclerosis. The most common symptom of this disease is pain in the legs when walking, which goes away at rest. However, this is much more than just difficulty walking. Here are some of the serious symptoms that occur when the disease progresses:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain that does not go away even at rest<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coldness and pallor in the feet and legs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-healing wounds on the toes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gangrene and loss of limb (amputation)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoking is by far the most important cause of peripheral arterial disease. A very high proportion of patients are smokers. Quitting smoking is the only and most effective way to slow the progression of this disease and avoid frightening consequences such as amputation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_link_between_aortic_aneurysm_enlargement_of_the_main_artery_and_smoking\"><\/span><b>What is the link between aortic aneurysm (enlargement of the main artery) and smoking?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The aorta is the largest artery in our body and the main highway that distributes blood from the heart throughout the body. An aortic aneurysm is when the wall of this vessel weakens and expands like a balloon. The greatest danger of this condition is that the aneurysm can grow without warning and suddenly rupture. A ruptured aorta is an emergency, often fatal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoking is the most important factor that directly weakens the aortic wall. The chemicals in cigarette smoke break down the structural proteins that give the vessel wall its flexibility and strength. This causes the wall to expand, unable to withstand the pressure. The risk is particularly high in men over the age of 65 who smoke and screening is recommended.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_rare_Buergers_disease_related_to_smoking\"><\/span><b>Is the rare Buerger&#8217;s disease related to smoking?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, there is a very strong relationship. Buerger&#8217;s disease is an inflammation and clotting of small and medium-sized blood vessels, especially in the hands and feet. This leads to severe pain, bruising and gangrene of the fingers. The most striking feature of this disease is that it occurs almost exclusively in tobacco users. The only known way to stop the progression of the disease is to give up all tobacco and nicotine products, including cigarettes. Buerger&#8217;s disease is one of the most concrete and painful examples of the direct toxic effect of smoking on the blood vessels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What positive changes occur in our vascular health when we quit smoking?<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After all this, let&#8217;s move on to the good news. Our body&#8217;s capacity to repair itself is incredible and this repair process starts as soon as you quit smoking. This is the best proof that there is no such thing as &#8220;too late&#8221;.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some of the miraculous changes your body will experience in the timeline after you quit smoking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the First Hours:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart rate slows down.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood pressure drops.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The level of toxic carbon monoxide in the blood returns to normal.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Within the First Year:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The circulatory system improves markedly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lung function improves, coughing and shortness of breath decrease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The risk of heart attack is halved.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long Term:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">in 5-15 years, the risk of stroke approaches the level of someone who has never smoked.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">after 15 years, the risk of coronary artery disease is almost the same as for someone who has never smoked.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even for people who have already had a heart attack or stent, quitting smoking reduces the risk of future events by up to P This is a huge benefit that no medicine can provide on its own.<\/span><br \/>\n<h2 class=\"accordion_title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div class=\"accordion\">\n\t<div id=\"accordion-588944668\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-588944668-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-does-smoking-damage-vascular-disease?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-588944668-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_smoking_damage_vascular_disease\"><\/span>How does smoking damage vascular disease?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-588944668-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-588944668-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Smoking destroys the lining of blood vessels, increases inflammation and leads to atherosclerosis.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1971994771\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1971994771-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-affect-blood-circulation?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1971994771-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_affect_blood_circulation\"><\/span>Does smoking affect blood circulation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1971994771-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1971994771-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, it causes blood vessels to constrict, making blood flow difficult and reducing oxygen transport to tissues.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-39096456\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-39096456-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-why-does-smoking-increase-clot-formation?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-39096456-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_does_smoking_increase_clot_formation\"><\/span>Why does smoking increase clot formation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-39096456-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-39096456-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Smoking increases the tendency of blood to clot, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-4047317440\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-4047317440-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-is-the-relationship-between-atherosclerosis-and-smoking?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-4047317440-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_relationship_between_atherosclerosis_and_smoking\"><\/span>What is the relationship between atherosclerosis and smoking?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-4047317440-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-4047317440-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Smoking accelerates the formation of plaque on the vessel walls, which is one of the main causes of atherosclerosis.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-217596868\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-217596868-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-cause-cardiovascular-disease?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-217596868-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_cause_cardiovascular_disease\"><\/span>Does smoking cause cardiovascular disease?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-217596868-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-217596868-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, it is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2756636191\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2756636191-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-cause-peripheral-artery-disease?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2756636191-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_cause_peripheral_artery_disease\"><\/span>Does smoking cause peripheral artery disease?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2756636191-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2756636191-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, it causes narrowing of the leg veins, triggering peripheral arterial disease.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1022530898\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1022530898-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-also-affect-the-brain-vessels?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1022530898-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_also_affect_the_brain_vessels\"><\/span>Does smoking also affect the brain vessels?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1022530898-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1022530898-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, smoking is one of the most important factors that increase the risk of stroke.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1458048072\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1458048072-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-secondhand-smoke-affect-vascular-health?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1458048072-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_secondhand_smoke_affect_vascular_health\"><\/span>Does secondhand smoke affect vascular health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1458048072-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1458048072-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, secondhand smoke can also damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-558411819\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-558411819-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-vascular-occlusion-in-smokers-start-at-an-early-age?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-558411819-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_vascular_occlusion_in_smokers_start_at_an_early_age\"><\/span>Does vascular occlusion in smokers start at an early age?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-558411819-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-558411819-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, vascular damage starts at an early age and can develop into serious diseases over time.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1995986845\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1995986845-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-cause-vasodilation?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1995986845-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_cause_vasodilation\"><\/span>Does smoking cause vasodilation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1995986845-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1995986845-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>On the contrary, smoking narrows the blood vessels and makes them lose elasticity.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2010594408\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2010594408-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-quitting-smoking-improve-blood-vessels?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2010594408-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_quitting_smoking_improve_blood_vessels\"><\/span>Does quitting smoking improve blood vessels?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2010594408-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2010594408-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, after quitting smoking, the blood vessels start to recover over a period of time and the risk of disease decreases.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-105458798\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-105458798-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-do-electronic-cigarettes-damage-vascular-health?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-105458798-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_electronic_cigarettes_damage_vascular_health\"><\/span>Do electronic cigarettes damage vascular health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-105458798-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-105458798-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, any product containing nicotine can have a negative effect on the vascular system.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2353841183\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2353841183-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-does-smoking-affect-vascular-surgery?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2353841183-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_smoking_affect_vascular_surgery\"><\/span>Does smoking affect vascular surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2353841183-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2353841183-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>Yes, smokers have a slower postoperative recovery and an increased risk of complications.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-198729645\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-198729645-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-why-is-it-dangerous-for-someone-with-vascular-disease-to-smoke?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-198729645-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_it_dangerous_for_someone_with_vascular_disease_to_smoke\"><\/span>Why is it dangerous for someone with vascular disease to smoke?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-198729645-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-198729645-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>It increases existing vascular damage, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of re-clogging.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1603440800\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1603440800-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-does-quitting-smoking-affect-vascular-health?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1603440800-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_quitting_smoking_affect_vascular_health\"><\/span>How does quitting smoking affect vascular health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1603440800-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1603440800-label\">\n\t\t\t\n<p>In the first year after quitting, the risk of heart attack and stroke drops significantly and vascular health improves over time.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Smoking has a profound impact on vascular health, accelerating atherosclerosis and significantly increasing the risk of peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Toxic substances in cigarettes damage the endothelium and promote plaque formation. Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, raises blood pressure, and increases heart rate, leading to higher cardiovascular strain. Additionally, carbon monoxide reduces oxygen [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":8983,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[477],"tags":[454,455,456,457],"class_list":["post-11165","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-damar-hastaliklari","tag-damar-hastaliklari-en","tag-damar-sertligi-en","tag-kalp-damar-hastaliklari-en","tag-sigaranin-zararlari-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11165","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11165"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11165\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13614,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11165\/revisions\/13614"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8983"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11165"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11165"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dryavuzbesogul.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11165"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}