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    Smoking and Stroke Risk

    Smoking and Stroke Risk



    Topic Overview

    Smoking injures blood vessel walls and speeds up hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). As a result, the heart works harder, and blood pressure may increase. Cigarette smoking increases your risk for Reference transient ischemic attack (TIA) Opens New Window and Reference stroke Opens New Window.

    Heavy smokers are at greater risk for TIA and stroke. Daily cigarette smoking can increase the risk of stroke by 2½ times.Reference 1

    The risk of stroke and TIA decreases for those who quit smoking. If you smoked less than one pack a day and you quit, within 5 years your risk will be the same as though you had never smoked.Reference 1




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference September 19, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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