True or False: Your blood vessels do not constrict when you smoke.

The correct answer is that blood vessels do constrict when you smoke. Smoking introduces various chemicals into the body, including nicotine, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. This means that it causes the blood vessels to narrow, which can increase blood pressure and reduce blood flow to different parts of the body.

The systemic effects of smoking, particularly the presence of carbon monoxide and other harmful substances in tobacco smoke, can lead to the development of atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries). This condition can further contribute to the constriction of blood vessels. Additionally, nicotine stimulates the release of adrenaline, which also promotes vasoconstriction. The combined effects of these substances highlight how smoking directly impacts blood vessel health and function.

By understanding these physiological changes, it becomes clear why smoking leads to blood vessel constriction and the associated health risks.