How Does Stress and Heart Attacks Affect the Heart?
Stress has a direct and significant impact on the heart, especially when it is chronic or severe. When the body is stressed, the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline increases heart rate and blood pressure, putting additional strain on the heart. Over time, this can lead to damage to blood vessels and the heart muscle itself. Chronic stress contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack. Additionally, stress may increase the formation of blood clots, which can block blood flow to the heart and trigger a heart attack.
The effects of stress on the heart are compounded by unhealthy lifestyle choices often associated with high stress, such as smoking, overeating, or insufficient physical activity. These behaviors increase the burden on the cardiovascular system, making the heart more vulnerable to damage. For individuals who have already experienced a heart attack, ongoing stress can hinder recovery by contributing to inflammation, increasing the risk of subsequent heart attacks, and impeding rehabilitation efforts. Therefore, stress management is essential not only for preventing heart disease but also for optimizing heart recovery and overall cardiovascular health.
