Smoking and neuropathy
Because smoking narrows your arteries and blood vessels, it can restrict blood flow to your arms and legs, and cause nerve damage. Smoking is a major risk factor for both the development and progression of nerve damage in your legs and feet. This is called “diabetic neuropathy,” and it results in a number of symptoms, including:
- Numbness and tingling
- Sharp pains or cramps
- Serious foot problems, such as ulcers, infections, deformities, and bone and joint pain
