Psychological stress causes heart attack

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1. Common risk factors and causes of heart attack

For men and women in general, the common risk factors for heart attack are: coronary heart disease, high blood cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and obesity. For women, the following factors are also included:
Diabetes : Women with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease. Psychological stress, depression: Women are more susceptible to cardiovascular effects. Having depression makes it difficult for women to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Smoking, drinking alcohol: Women who have a habit of smoking and regularly use alcohol and beer will have a higher risk of heart disease. Sedentary: Women tend to be more sedentary than men, thus having a higher risk of heart disease. Menopause: After menopause, low estrogen levels are one of the significant risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, especially coronary microvascular disease. Stress cardiomyopathy: Chronic psychological stress in postmenopausal women can lead to stress cardiomyopathy, also known as bubble apex syndrome. Pregnancy complications: Complications during pregnancy such as diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of developing heart disease in both the mother and the baby. Inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other inflammatory diseases can also increase your risk of heart disease. Therefore, women of all ages should be concerned about heart disease. Women under age 65, and especially those with a family history of heart disease, need to be very mindful of the risk factors for heart disease listed above.

2. Psychological stress - One of the causes of heart attack to be wary of

Irritability, anxiety, depression, or thinking, insomnia or waking up at night can be caused by chronic stress. Constant psychological stress is not only damaging mentally, but it can also cause physical symptoms such as headaches, upset stomach, muscle tension and pain, insomnia, and low energy.
Heart disease is another potential stress-related problem. Stress can lead to high blood pressure, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Along with factors such as smoking, eating a high-fat diet, and being sedentary, stress can also contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Constant stress can affect creativity and productivity. For many people, the workplace can also be a source of stress. Work stress can stem from long hours, physical stress, high demands, or job insecurity.
Major psychological stress can trigger a cascade of biological events in the body and can lead to serious heart problems, especially in people with predisposing factors, say researchers. such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Researchers also say that the type of trauma that stimulates stress hormones in the body, such as catecholamines, increases heart rate and blood pressure, causing heart attacks in people at risk.

3. The difference between psychological stress causes heart attack and heart disease

In women, heart attack symptoms not related to heart disease may be more present than in men. Chronic psychological stress can cause symptoms such as:
Neck discomfort, jaw pain, shoulder pain, upper back pain or abdominal pain. Shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue. Pain in one or both arms

4. How to prevent psychological stress from causing heart attack?

Psychological stress can occur to varying degrees. A little stress related to obligations and work deadlines can motivate people to complete tasks. However, chronic stress is often associated with a serious illness or difficulties at work.
To prevent and reduce the risk of heart attack caused by stress, we can manage stress and related cardiovascular problems by making some lifestyle changes such as:
Strengthen Be physically active by walking every day. Mood and psychological stress can be improved through physical activity. Regular exercise can help lower blood pressure and fight other cardiovascular disease risk factors. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress. In addition, it can be combined with yoga to increase the feeling of relaxation. Eat more vegetables and cut back on foods high in sugar and fat. Limit and give up alcohol, beer and tobacco use. Regularly monitor blood pressure, blood fat levels and body mass index. Get a yearly physical exam and talk to your doctor about health concerns, including psychological stress. Prioritize the things that matter, find ways to balance work-life. Spend time with family and friends who can help bring you laughter. Stress and sleep are closely related. Stress can affect sleep and lack of sleep can lead to stress. Therefore, it is necessary to sleep 7-8 hours a day. The sleeping environment is also very important, the bedroom needs to be cool, ventilated, dark and quiet. Before going to bed, do not exercise, eat foods high in fat, sugar or drink alcohol. If psychological stress does not go away or symptoms of depression appear, take the initiative to see a doctor or psychologist for help. Try to have a positive attitude towards life to reduce stress. Ongoing psychological stress can be a factor in a heart attack. To prevent stress that causes heart attack, it is necessary to pay attention to building a healthy lifestyle such as eating lots of green vegetables, reducing fat, sweet, limiting the use of alcohol, beer, tobacco, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and have a positive attitude towards life.
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Reference source: webmd.com; heart.org