Study Suggests Mental Stress , May Pose an Increased Risk , to Cardiovascular Health .
'The New York Times' reports that chronic psychological stress may play a larger role in heart health than traditional cardiac risk factors.
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'The New York Times' reports that chronic psychological stress may play a larger role in heart health than traditional cardiac risk factors.
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According to a study published in November in 'JAMA,' mental stress took a significantly greater toll on the heart than physical stress.
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Those who experienced greater mental stress were more likely to suffer a nonfatal heart attack or die of cardiovascular disease in the years following the test.
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Those who experienced greater mental stress were more likely to suffer a nonfatal heart attack or die of cardiovascular disease in the years following the test.
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Dr. Michael T.
Osborne, a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, , explained that the Interheart study showed that mental stress is an independent risk factor for heart attacks, causing damages similar to more commonly-measured risks.
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Dr. Osborne said evidence suggests that modern medicine has largely neglected a vitally important danger to heart health.
He says that regular physical exercise can help control stress and prevent the body-wide inflammation it can cause.
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He says that regular physical exercise can help control stress and prevent the body-wide inflammation it can cause.
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Developing healthy sleep habits can also help reduce the risk of damage to your cardiovascular system.
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The 'NYT' points out that relaxation practices like mindfulness meditation, controlled breathing, yoga and tai chi can also help people cope with stress.
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Additionally, Dr. Osborne says that several common medications can help.
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Statins reduce cholesterol and counter arterial inflammation.
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Antidepressants, like ketamine, can also help ease stress in people with depression
