How nicotine can harm the heart?

Nicotine can harm the heart in several ways:

- Increased heart rate: Nicotine causes the heart rate to increase, which can put strain on the heart and increase the risk of developing arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms).

- Increased blood pressure: Nicotine can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure. Over time, this can damage the blood vessels and lead to high blood pressure (hypertension), which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

- Atherosclerosis: Nicotine contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This can lead to heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

- Increased inflammation: Nicotine increases inflammation throughout the body, including in the heart. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for heart disease.

- Altered blood clotting: Nicotine affects the way blood clots, making it more likely for clots to form. This can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

- Damage to heart muscle cells: Nicotine can directly damage the cells of the heart muscle, leading to a condition called cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy can weaken the heart and make it less able to pump blood effectively.

- Reduced oxygen delivery to the heart: Nicotine causes the blood vessels to constrict, which reduces the amount of oxygen-rich blood that reaches the heart. This can lead to chest pain (angina) and, in severe cases, heart attack.

The combination of these effects can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.