Quitting smoking has a variety of health benefits. Quitting is a life-changing experience for many. Smoking can even weaken the effects of certain blood pressure medications. Therefore, smoking is highly discouraged as a means to lower blood pressure.
Smoking can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke. Cigarette smoke contains nicotine, which increases blood pressure and raises the heart rate. It can also damage artery walls, increasing plaque buildup and stressing the heart.
The long-term consequences of smoking are not just heart attack and stroke. It can also cause depression and stress. Secondhand smoke is also hazardous, exposing nonsmokers to secondhand smoke.