HEART DISEASE AND STROKE PREVENTION: ACUTE EMOTIONAL STRESS AND THE HEART

Experiencing emotional or physical stress causes an increase in heart rate, elevation of blood pressure and release of stress hormones. All these result in a greater workload for the heart, which can be dangerous. Stress can cause a heart attack, sudden cardiac death, heart failure or arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) in persons who may not even know they have heart disease. Individuals with congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, known arrhythmias, or other heart or blood vessel diseases should avoid emotional stress whenever possible and learn to manage the effects of stress. Excessive physical exertion and emotional stress may cause problems in both men and women, but women seem to be particularly susceptible to developing heart problems in the face of emotional stress. Ask your doctor about any limitations on physical activity or vigorous exercise if you have heart disease.

· Increased heart rate

· Increased blood pressure

· Release of catecholamines (stress hormones, including epinephrine, which is also known as adrenaline) from the adrenal glands

· Increased oxygen demand on the body (temporarily higher metabolic rate)

· Lower threshold for abnormal heart rhythms including ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation and atrial fibrillation. Electrical instability in the heart makes it easier for these abnormal heart rhythms to occur.

· Spasm of coronary (heart) blood vessels, leading to ischemia (inadequate blood flow to the heart)

· Avoid situations that you know will cause stress.

· Incorporate some type of exercise into each day.

· Eat a healthful diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

· Do not smoke.

· Use alcohol only in moderation.

· Quiet time, meditation, prayer, reading, yoga and relaxation techniques (including biofeedback) can help in stress management.

· Family and friends can provide needed support. Talking about problems can help to reduce conflict and express feelings.

· If you have heart disease, your doctor may prescribe a beta-blocker, a type of medication to help lower the heart rate and control abnormal heart rhythms.