Cardiologist Anastasia Malay: chronic stress is one of the key factors in the occurrence of heart problems.
Cardiologist Malay told Izvestia in an interview about how stress “kills” the heart. The doctor said that in the extensive list of factors that negatively affect the health of the cardiovascular system, stress is one of the main ones. In particular, chronic stress causes inflammation and other abnormalities that lead to the development of heart disease.
“Acute and chronic stress can affect the heart differently. Acute stress usually does not cause heart problems, but some people may develop cardiomyopathy. Chronic stress can lead to inflammation, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis,” the cardiologist noted.
Malay clarified that in situations of anxiety and nervous tension, the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol are released. It is under their influence that dangerous adverse processes for the heart occur – for example, the development of insulin resistance or changes in vascular function, leading to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques on the vascular walls.
One of the most damaging effects of chronic stress on the heart is the narrowing of blood vessels and the development of hypertension – high blood pressure.
“High blood pressure makes the heart work harder, putting excessive strain on the heart muscle. Over time, this can lead to thickening of the heart walls – a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy,” the cardiologist warned.
Anastasia Malay named the signs of the negative impact of stress on the heart – a feeling of discomfort in the chest, shortness of breath that intensifies with physical activity, a feeling of irregular heartbeat, increased fatigue. The doctor emphasized: you need to be able to manage stress, it is important to strengthen stress resistance. This is facilitated by playing sports, walking in the fresh air, communicating with loved ones, getting enough sleep, as well as turning to specialists for professional help.
Earlier, the MedikForum.ru portal wrote about what helps to keep the heart and blood vessels healthy for a long time.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Anastasia Malay Health cardiologist