We've all felt a surge of anger from time to time, whether it's due to a frustrating situation or an unexpected setback. But did you know that these moments of anger can have a serious impact on your heart health? Brief bouts of anger can impair blood vessels' ability to expand and contract, potentially harming heart health. We spoke to our expert Dr PRLN Prasad, Consultant – Interventional Cardiologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, who explained the link between anger and heart health and shared management tips.
“As a senior consultant cardiologist, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that emotions can have on cardiovascular health. While occasional anger is a normal part of life, frequent or intense episodes of anger can pose significant risks to your heart. Understanding the connection between anger and heart health is essential for both prevention and management of heart disease,” said Dr Prasad.
The Physiological Impact of Anger on the Heart
The body undergoes a number of physiological changes when you experience anger. The “fight or flight” response is triggered, leading to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. These changes are meant to protect you in the short term, but frequent episodes of anger can lead to long-term cardiovascular issues.
According to the National Cancer Institute, when you experience anger, your body releases stress hormones called catecholamines, including dopamine, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. This hormonal surge triggers physical responses, such as a racing heart and elevated blood pressure.
Also Read: Managing Anger And Anxiety In Children With Autism: Expert Insights
Key Effects of Anger on Heart Health
Provoked anger is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular events. Dr Prasad listed the effects of anger on heart health as follows:
- Increased Blood Pressure: Anger can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. Repeated episodes of elevated blood pressure can damage the arterial walls, leading to atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed and hardened due to plaque buildup.
- Elevated Heart Rate: During anger, your heart rate increases significantly. Chronic elevations in heart rate can strain the heart and contribute to the development of arrhythmias and other cardiac conditions.
- Stress Hormones: The release of stress hormones during anger can lead to inflammation and damage to blood vessels over time. Chronic exposure to these hormones is detrimental to overall cardiovascular health.
Also Read: Understanding Hangry: How Hunger Influences Emotions And Health, Explained by Expert
Strategies for Managing Anger and Protecting Heart Health
Dr Prasad listed tips to manage anger and protect your heart health in the following ways:
- Adopt Relaxation Techniques: Techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anger and reduce stress. Regular practice of these techniques can have a calming effect on the cardiovascular system.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep is crucial. These habits not only support cardiovascular health but also help in managing stress and anger more effectively.
- Professional Support: If managing anger is challenging, seeking help from a mental health professional is advisable. Therapy and counseling can provide effective strategies for controlling emotions and reducing the frequency and intensity of anger episodes.
- Develop Coping Mechanisms: Identifying triggers and developing coping mechanisms is essential. Techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, which involves challenging and changing negative thought patterns, can be highly effective.
Bottomline
Dr Prasad concluded The connection between emotional well-being and heart health cannot be overstated. By adopting strategies to manage anger and reduce stress, individuals can significantly lower their risk of heart disease and improve their overall quality of life. As a healthcare professional, I urge you to consider the impact of emotions on your heart and take proactive steps to maintain both emotional and cardiovascular health.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]