What happens to my body if I smoke?
It helps to fur up your blood vessels. In particular those small blood vessels that supply blood to your heart muscle (called coronary arteries). This is the last thing that your hearts needs to cope with. If one of these blood vessels becomes blocked you can suffer from a heart attack. It is a well known fact that people who smoke are 2 to 3 times more likely to suffer from a heart attack than people who don't smoke.
It makes it harder for the oxygen to get around your body. This causes the blood to become slightly thicker than normal and increases your risks of developing blood clots. If you have a heart condition where you are slightly blue, your blood is already slightly thicker than normal and therefore you definitely must not smoke.
You will have even less energy and will be more breathless and have a nasty cough.
You are more at risk of developing cancer in particular cancer of the mouth, nose or throat. The risk of lung cancer is also increased. You are also more at risk of suffering from stomach ulcers, cancers of the bladder, kidneys, stomach and pancreas.
You are more prone to developing chronic problems with your lungs including things like bronchitis and emphysema and a condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. If your lungs don't work properly then your heart has to work twice has hard.
Smoking increases the risks of flu and other infections because it affects your immune system.
Smoking causes gum disease - a major cause of tooth loss.
Smoking damages your skin causing wrinkles around your eyes and mouth. It causes premature ageing through poor circulation and low oxygen levels.
Smoking can affect you ability to have babies later on as you grow up.
