The Link Between Smoking and Vein Disease

The Link Between Smoking and Vein Disease

While most people are aware of the massively devastating health effects that cigarettes have on their heart, lungs, oral health, and general appearance, it is less likely that they are aware of the effects smoking can have on their veins’ health. The circulatory system is most certainly affected and it can lead to damage including venous insufficiency (vein disease).

The damage done to the circulatory system is most pervasive in the form of spider and varicose veins which are apparent on a surface level. Varicose and spider veins often cause discomfort on top of visual embarrassment, the true damage and potential for life-threatening issues occur internally. The full extent of the damage cannot be fully seen without an examination by a vascular specialist. One of the more serious complications that can arise from venous disease is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that occurs when blood clots form within the deep veins.

Deep vein thrombosis can lead to the life-threatening condition of a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolisms can occur when a blood clot started by DVT breaks off, travels through the bloodstream, and becomes stuck in the lungs. This clot can block and prevent blood flow, and even result in death. Smokers are 50% more likely to develop DVT than are non-smokers.

How exactly does smoking affect a person’s vascular system?

The toxic chemicals which are added to cigarettes wreak havoc on the body’s circulatory system. Nicotine causes arteries to narrow and harden, greatly increasing the risk for the formation of blood clots. Other chemical compounds found in cigarettes thicken blood reducing the oxygen flow. This slows the blood flow. With both of these factors combined,  it’s easy to understand that smoking thickens the blood and at the same time narrows the path that it has to travel through. This can lead to some very serious health conditions.

The best solution for preventing smoking-related venous disease is to never start smoking. For those who already smoke, the best advice is to stop smoking immediately.

The damage done from smoking is not completely irreversible. Quitting can greatly reduce the risks of cigarette-related venous disease, as well as reduce the risks of cancer and heart disease. If you choose to keep smoking being a lifetime smoker almost guarantees a vascular surgery in their future.

Many vein conditions are now easily treatable with minimally invasive techniques and procedures, with many patients reporting little to no pain as well as almost immediate relief of their symptoms. Contact our staff today to learn about the many options available to you and to schedule an appointment at our state of the art Tampa vein center. The West Florida Vein Center looks forward to serving you. www.westfloridaveincenter.com

(727) 712-3233.