How does nicotine specifically impact cardiovascular health?

Nicotine specifically impacts cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, making this the correct choice. When nicotine is consumed, it stimulates the adrenal glands to release adrenaline. This hormone causes the heart to beat faster (increased heart rate) and constricts blood vessels, leading to an elevation in blood pressure.

The escalation in heart rate puts added stress on the heart, which can lead to various cardiovascular problems over time, such as hypertension, heart disease, and increased risk of heart attacks. Additionally, by increasing the workload on the heart and altering normal blood flow, nicotine contributes to poor cardiovascular outcomes.

In contrast, other options misrepresent nicotine's effects on the cardiovascular system. Decreasing blood pressure or slowing the heartbeat is not characteristic of nicotine's action. Similarly, claiming that nicotine improves circulation is inaccurate; its effects generally lead to adverse cardiovascular conditions rather than enhancements in vascular health.