Smoking is damaging to the blood supply. Smoking exposes the body to free radicals which causes cellular damage and can cause poor circulation of nutrients to the retina and lens. Carotenoid levels and vitamin C blood concentrations are substantially reduced. Smoking oxidizes cholesterol, causing fat to build up in the arteries. This leads to heart attack, stroke, and probably macular degeneration.
Researchers think smoking contributes to the incidence of some types of cataracts.
Carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke creates a hypoxic effect, it is clear that hypoxia will degrade night vision. Smoking produces cyanide, a retinal toxin. Smokers may develop a problem called toxic amblyopia. Amblyopia is reduced or dimness of vision that is not related to visible changes in eye health. Causes include exposure to toxic substances, such as alcohol and tobacco smoke, diabetic, and medication.