Stress is the constant worry or mental tension. In addition to the general deterioration of mental health, headaches, stomach disorders and sleep, which chronic stress has been proven to cause, it has been shown to be associated with increased cardiovascular problems.
It has been confirmed by studies that high levels of cortisol from long-term stress can increase blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar and blood pressure, each of which separately and together are risk factors for heart disease. It can also cause changes that promote the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries.
Acute psychological stress has been shown to cause transient myocardial ischemia, and long-term stress can increase inflammation in the body, which in turn is associated with factors that can damage the heart.
If you are dealing with a chronic stress problem in combination with other risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity or high blood pressure, mention it during your visit and history taking with your Cardiologist.
