Psychological Stress Poses “Silent Danger” to Heart Health, Cardiologists Warn
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – Mounting evidence reveals psychological stress, both acute and chronic, significantly impacts cardiovascular health, potentially triggering heart rhythm disorders and long-term damage, according to recent statements by cardiology experts.While the body is equipped to handle occasional tension, sustained or sudden psychological pressure can disrupt normal heart function and contribute to serious cardiac events.
The heart is designed to adapt to physical exertion, but struggles when faced with psychological stress, explained a cardiology spokesman. Chronic stress leads to consistently elevated blood pressure, causing gradual harm, while acute tension can directly induce irregular heartbeats by increasing erratic electrical impulses within the heart. Furthermore, stress often fuels unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, compounding the risk.
“In chronic cases, stress hormones can lead to continuous high blood pressure, and although the effect may be simple, it may cause long-term damage,” the spokesman stated. He also noted stress can activate inflammatory responses within the body, mirroring those triggered by physical strain.
Tho, experts emphasize stress management, not elimination, is key. “control of psychological tension alone will not treat heart diseases, and it is not sufficient to prevent them reliably. we will all pass through cases of tension from time to time, and what matters is to learn techniques to manage it rather of trying to avoid it fully,” he said.
Cardiologists recommend identifying and addressing sources of stress, prioritizing well-being, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Reducing screen time and daily physical activity are also advised as effective stress-reduction techniques.
