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Smoking is a major cause of heart disease in Wales and the UK, contributing to thousands of preventable deaths every year. Understanding the link between smoking and heart health can help you take control and make positive changes for your future.
Heart disease encompasses various conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function, including:
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD): Narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, often leading to heart attacks.
Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that can impair heart function.
Heart Failure: A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs.
These conditions can develop over time and may be influenced by lifestyle factors, including smoking.
Symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition but often include:
Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
Shortness of Breath: Especially during physical activity or when lying down.
Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or lack of energy.
Swelling: In the legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid buildup.
Dizziness or Light-headedness: Especially during exertion.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing heart and circulatory diseases. Here’s how it affects your heart:
Atherosclerosis: Chemicals in cigarettes make the walls of your arteries sticky, causing fatty material to adhere and build up, leading to narrowing and blockages.
Increased Blood Pressure: Nicotine raises blood pressure and heart rate, forcing the heart to work harder.
Reduced Oxygen Supply: Carbon monoxide from smoke binds with red blood cells, reducing oxygen availability to the heart and other organs.
Blood Clotting: Smoking increases the likelihood of blood clot formation, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes.
The most effective way to reduce your risk of heart disease is to quit smoking. Your heart begins to heal almost immediately after you stop:
Support for quitting smoking, including free services and expert advice.
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