Metro New York Article on Smoking

I read a great article today in Metro New York, and perhaps in other Metros, summarizing the effects of smoking. I smoke a little. Two things popped out the most for me -- skin effects and fertility effects.

Here is a summary:

Lungs: Paralyzes ciliary hairs that clean out the lungs. About 70 percent of tar sticks to the lungs ad kills healthy cells. It's the same tar used in road paving.

Heart: Your heart beats a extra 36,000 beats per day. Arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat can result.

Blood: Carbon monoxide takes the place of oxygen in blood, which is therefore less oxygenated. Less oxygen is available to cells. If you exercise, this is especially not good.

Blood Pressure: Increases blood vessel constriction and raised blood pressure 10 percent to 15 percent, increasing the risk for heart attack or stroke.

Brain: The brain endorses endorphins, making you feel good when you smoke.

Teeth: They get stained from nicotine and tar.

Nose and tongue: The senses of smell and taste fade.

Skin: Because of decreased oxygen levels, premature aging may occur.

Fertility: Women -- Heavy smokers show a 43 percent decline in fertility.

Men -- Male smokers may have a lower sperm count, altered sperm shape and erectile problems.

Disclaimer: None of the above information can be taken as a substitute for advice from a medical professional such as a physician.

My third book, Pocket Guide to Fitness, is available on www.louizapatsis.com, http://www.authorhouse.com, www.bn.com and http://www.amazon.com. If you look up my name on those Web sites, you will find my other books The Boy in a Wheelchair and Life, Work and Play: Poems and Short Stories.