Recent research links stress to long-term heart health issues
The impact of stress on a person’s long-term heart health is well-documented in a growing body of research.
A recently published study by the American Heart Association found a link between increasing levels of the body’s stress hormone, cortisol, and a risk for developing high blood pressure at follow-up evaluation six and a half years later.
“In today’s fast-paced, high-intensity world, filled with increasing demands, there is a growing interest to understand the impact of cumulative exposure to daily stressors on blood pressure and cardiovascular health,” said Sagger Mawri, MD, a cardiologist with Premier Cardiovascular Institute.
Nearly 80% of Americans say they experienced at least one symptom of stress in the previous month, according to a 2017 survey by the American Psychological Association. Medical professionals say their clinical experience shows that this amount has likely only risen since 2020.
“Stressors related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic landscape in recent years have only made things worse,” said Dr. Mawri, who practices with Premier Physician Network. “Furthermore, a majority of Americans are reporting high stress levels due to financial concerns, political landscape and inflation with a rise in prices for everyday items such as gas, energy and groceries.”
Research suggests that moderate levels of stress can have a positive effect on a person. It can help keep someone focused, motivated and alert. Still, stress can reach an unhealthy level when it interrupts day-today functioning and can negatively affect health, mood, productivity and relationships, Mawri said.
An unhealthy level of stress can produce symptoms such as muscle tension or pain in the head, neck, jaw or back. It can also manifest itself in missed menstrual cycles and gastrointestinal disturbances. A person may experience problems with concentrating or feel worried all the time.
Stress also has indirect influences on cardiovascular health by means of how it is managed. The AHA outlines steps a person can take to reduce stress in their lives and control the impact it has on their health.
Prioritize your life — Slow down and plan ahead to address the most important things in life without feeling rushed. Consider placing aside things that fall to the bottom of the list to be addressed another day.
Think beyond yourself — Make time to connect with friends and family and maintain a social support system. Practice giving back by volunteering and helping others.
Develop healthy habits — Give up bad habits such as excessive alcohol use, tobacco use and too much caffeine intake. Become active everyday through exercise to relieve mental and physical tension.
Adopt mindfulness — Daily prayer, meditation, reflection or journaling can give life a clearer purpose and provide a greater connection to the world and others, thereby helping to alleviate stress.
Mawri suggests that individuals seek stress management counseling or speak to a mental health professional if they recognize any of these symptoms. A person’s primary care provider is a resource to find the best professional to help.
For more information about heart health or to schedule an appointment with a Premier Physician Network provider near you, visit PremierHealth.com/ MakeAnAppointment.