Take It Easier: Chronic Stress Could Cause a Heart Attack

May 1, 2023

Sometimes stress can be useful. Short-lived stress can help you accomplish a task and stay focused and has been proven to help with memory retention. But chronic stress - whether caused by emotional issues, personal troubles, financial difficulties, or family discord - is a different story. It can affect overall well-being and could even impact heart health.

Infographic: Irritability, anxiety, insomnia or other sleep issues, and depression, can result from chronic stress.

Chronic stress doesn't just take an emotional and psychological toll. Physical symptoms can also arise. Some symptoms we can quickly recognize, like headache, an upset stomach, tense and aching muscles, and low energy. But one that might be harder to spot – but most important to take care of – is heart disease.

Why Does Chronic Stress Lead To An Increased Risk Of Cardiovascular Events?

Stress may lead to high blood pressure, which can pose a risk for heart attack and stroke. Stress also may contribute to behaviors that increase the risk of a cardiovascular event, such as smoking, overeating, and lack of physical activity.

Constant stress can impact creativity and productivity. For many people, the workplace is a source of stress. If you currently or used to work long hours, endured physical strain, and dealt with high demands or job insecurity, you might want to explore how those demands have affected you and what you can do to restore your health.

One of the most effective ways to manage stress is to set priorities for what is most important to you and aim for a balance in your life between the things that are important to you.

Some of the other most recommended ways to manage your stress:

• Make time for friends, family and laughter.
• Physical activity can give a sense of accomplishment and ease stress and improve mood. Regular exercise helps to lower blood pressure and combat other cardiovascular disease risk factors.
• Mindful meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress. Consider yoga, which combines movement, controlled breathing, and relaxation.
• Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule of 7 to 8 hours nightly. Going to bed and waking at the same times daily can provide a routine that your body – and stress level - will benefit from.
• Avoid eating or drinking too close before bedtime, especially alcohol and foods high in fat or sugar.

Chronic Stress Can Affect Sleep

Infographic: Did You Know? Sleep and stress are deeply interconnected. Stress can affect sleep, and lack of sleep can, in turn, lead to more stress.

If you have difficulties reducing your stress level or your symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider about getting help.

One of the most important ways is to attempt to find a "silver lining" in the face of life's challenges may help reduce stress. Adopting a positive attitude may help improve the perception of stress and result in better quality of life and better cardiovascular health.

Another way to successfully manage your stress is with the peace of mind knowing your loved ones are taken care. The Whole Life policy available through IRTA and AMBA guarantees acceptance if you’re between the ages of 45 to 85. No exams, no tests, no questions. Plus, premiums are set at a fixed rate – and as long as they are paid, you’ll never be dropped for any reason! This plan even features a no-obligation 60-day return policy. You can now purchase your Whole Life Insurance Policy online. Learn more at www.AMBAlifeinsurance.com or call 877-290-3173.

Source: https://ceoroundtable.heart.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ucm_496856.pdf

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