Produced by: Tarun Mishra
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals a concerning finding: brief episodes of anger could elevate the risk of heart attacks and strokes, altering blood vessel functioning.
The study was conducted by a team of researchers from Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Yale School of Medicine, St. John's University in New York, and other esteemed institutions.
The researchers recruited 280 healthy adults and divided them into four groups. Each group was instructed to recall events inducing anger, sadness, or anxiety, while a control group maintained a neutral emotional state by counting aloud.
Before and after the study, the researchers examined blood samples and measured blood flow and pressure. They discovered a significant reduction in blood vessel dilation among participants in the anger group compared to the control group. Interestingly, sadness and anxiety did not affect blood vessel dilation.
Daichi Shimbo, from Columbia University, warns that repeated episodes of negative emotions may have lasting effects on cardiovascular health, potentially leading to irreversible damage.
Andrew Steptoe, from University College London, acknowledges the challenge of modifying intense emotions like anger. While there are interventions for anger management, altering such emotions remains a complex task.
Glenn Levine underscores the importance of understanding the intricate connection between psychological states and cardiovascular health. Stress and emotional management emerge as crucial factors for maintaining heart health.
The study sheds light on the detrimental effects of anger on blood vessel functioning, aligning with observations linking intense emotions to heart attacks. Managing stress and emotions becomes imperative for overall heart health.
With its findings, the study underscores the significance of addressing emotions, particularly anger, in mitigating the risk of heart attacks and strokes, offering valuable insights into the intricate interplay between psychological states and cardiovascular well-being.