Short-term Bouts of Anger Can Lead To Heart Problems: Here’s Why
A study shows that anger can cause heart problems because it affects the cells in the blood vessels.
Sudden anger can cause heart disease because it damages blood vessels. Negative emotions like anger can have a huge impact not only on our emotions and brain, but also on our physical health. Short-term anger can cause heart problems as it can cause brain damage. Stress hormones released when a person is angry can also increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can put you at higher risk of heart disease. Repetitive anger can lead to heart attacks in people who already have heart disease. In addition, the stress caused by anger can affect other things in our bodies, like digestion and immunity.
What happens when we get angry?
When we get angry, there are physical changes in our bodies. The American Psychological Association defines anger as ranging from mild anger to rage and fury. First, the amygdala brain sends signals to the adrenal glands to release stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones increase heart rate, blood pressure and energy, preparing the body for the ‘fight or flight’ response,” explains internal medicine physician Dr. Basavaraj S Kumbar. The muscles and breathing then become faster. These changes may be beneficial in the short term, but they can be dangerous when anger builds.
What does anger do to our body?
A study recently published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that negative emotions such as anger increase the risk of heart disease. Participants included healthy adults who were in the process of recovering from anger, recovery from depression, recovery from anxiety, or recovery from a dysfunctional situation. These activities last eight minutes. The researchers tracked changes in the dilation of blood vessels and analyzed cell damage when they were reminded of anger, stress or sadness. Participants in the anger healing task were assessed for signs of vascular dysfunction.
Here’s how anger affects many bodily functions:
1. The cardiovascular system
Anger increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to long-term heart problems. When we’re angry, we produce more stress hormones called catecholamines. Research published by the National Cancer Institute suggests that this can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
2. The immune system
Long-term anger weakens the body, making it more susceptible to disease. A study published in the journal Immunology suggests that anger can affect the immune system, depending on the cause. Research shows a hostile marital environment can lead to inflammation.
3. The digestive system
Stress hormones can interfere with digestion, causing stomach pain, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome. A study published in the journal Gastroenterology shows that anger also affects intestinal motility and electromyographic activity in the gastrointestinal tract.
4. The muscular system
Anger can lead to physical violence. These muscles can cause headaches, back pain, and other musculoskeletal problems. In a study published in the journal Neurospine, participants with moderate to severe anger reported problems with back and neck pain.
What is the connection between negative emotions and heart problems?
A study published by the University of Rochester Medical Center shows that negative emotions such as anger, anxiety and depression, while not as strong, can increase the risk of heart disease. Chronic stress and negative emotions lead to the release of stress hormones, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate. “This ongoing stress can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of conditions such as heart disease and stroke,” Dr. Kumbar said. Negative thoughts can also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as poor nutrition, smoking and lack of exercise, which can further increase the risk of heart disease.
Can excessive anger cause heart attack?
Yes, excessive anger can cause heart problems and lead to heart attack. Intense anger causes the release of stress hormones that increase heart rate and blood pressure, which has negative effects on the cardiovascular system. In people who have heart disease or are at risk, this increase can lead to a heart attack,” Dr. Kumbar said. It is important to control anger with strategies such as deep breathing, exercising, and seeking help if necessary.
How to control anger?
Although anger can be the cause of some situations, short-term, intense anger can lead to social problems as well as heart problems. However, following some practical steps can help you control your anger. Steps such as thinking before you get distracted, speaking only when you are calm, and taking breaks when necessary can help you calm down.
Summary
Anger can cause not only depression but also physical pain. A recent study looked at the cardiovascular effects of anger. Your blood pressure, heart rate and immunity are all affected by anger. Anger can also cause back and neck pain and digestive problems.