We warmly welcome our weekly readers to this week’s edition of our Health Diaries column, where we delve into various disease-related topics, simplifying complex concepts for our audiences.
In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an almost unavoidable part of life. Whether due to financial pressure, work demands, family responsibilities or personal challenges, emotional stress can take a serious toll on physical health—particularly on the heart. Studies have shown that stress is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, which remain among the leading causes of death globally.
When a person is under stress, the body responds by releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are designed to prepare the body for the “fight or flight” response, temporarily increasing heart rate and blood pressure. While this response is natural and necessary in emergencies, prolonged exposure to stress keeps the body in a heightened state of alert, which becomes harmful over time.
One of the most direct impacts of stress on the heart is high blood pressure (hypertension). Prolonged stress causes the blood vessels to constrict and the heart to beat faster, thereby raising blood pressure.
High blood pressure, over time, can damage the blood vessels and contribute to the buildup of plaque—leading to atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows and hardens the arteries. This greatly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Furthermore, stress often influences unhealthy coping behaviours. People under stress may turn to overeating, excessive alcohol consumption, or avoid physical activity—all of which place additional strain on the cardiovascular system. These behaviours can lead to obesity, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels, compounding the risk of heart disease.
Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are associated with poor heart health. Depression, in particular, is linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and poor outcomes for individuals who have already experienced a cardiac event, such as a heart attack.
Effectively managing stress is key to protecting your cardiovascular health. Techniques such as physical exercise, mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and therapy can all help lower stress levels.
Even simple activities, such as walking in nature or spending time with loved ones, can make a significant difference.
Stress, if not well prevented or managed, can worsen your overall health through compounding your heart condition. Support systems, therapy and prioritising your mental well-being is just as vital as medication and diet for heart health.
📩 Dr Lulu contact: healthdiaries@yahoo.com
