Short bouts of anger may lead to heart problems: Study

Negative emotions such as anger can have a deep impact, not only on our emotional and mental health but also on our physical well-being. Short bouts of anger can lead to heart problems as it may hurt the cells that make up the blood vessels. Stress hormones, released when a person is angry, can also lead to high blood pressure and heart rate, and this can put you at a higher risk of heart disease. For people who already suffer from heart conditions, recurrent bouts of anger can also lead to heart attacks. Besides this, the stress caused due to anger can also impact other systems in our bodies such as digestion as well as immunity.

What happens when we get angry?

When we get angry, our body undergoes several physiological changes. The American Psychological Association explains anger as ranging from mild irritation to fury as well as rage. “First, the brain’s amygdala sends signals to the adrenal glands to release stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels, preparing the body for a ‘fight or flight’ response,” explains Internal Medicine Specialist Dr Basavaraj S Kumbar. Next the muscles tense up, and breathing becomes more rapid. These changes can be beneficial in short bursts, but harmful if anger is sustained.

How does anger impact our body?

Negative emotions such as anger can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, notes a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association . The participants consisted of healthy adults who were exposed to tasks such as an anger recall task, a depressed mood recall task, an anxiety recall task or an emotionally neutral condition. These tasks lasted for eight minutes. While they recalled memories where they felt angry, anxious or sad, researchers tracked the changes in their blood vessel dilations, as well as analysed cell injury. People who were in the anger recall task, were observed to show signs of impaired blood vessel function.

Here’s how anger affects various functions of the body:

1. Cardiovascular System

Anger can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to long-term heart issues. When we get angry, there is an excess of stress hormones known as catecholamines. This can lead to high blood pressure, as well as rapid heartbeat, states this study, published by the National Cancer Institute.

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2. Immune System

Chronic anger can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. A study published in Immunology, states that anger can impact immunity, and it depends on the reason for this anger. The study showed that a hostile marital interaction can lead to more inflammation.

3. Digestive system

Stress hormones can disrupt digestion, causing stomach aches, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome. Anger can also impact colon motor and myoelectric activity in irritable bowel syndrome, states a study, published in Gastroenterology.

4. Muscular system

Anger can lead to a lot of tension in the body. This tension in muscles can lead to headaches, back pain, and other musculoskeletal issues. A study, published in Neurospine, states that participants who had moderate to severe anger reported issues of back as well as neck pain.

What is the connection between negative emotions and heart problems?

Negative emotions, such as anger, anxiety, and depression, can significantly impact heart health by weakening it, states a study, published by the University of Rochester Medical Center. Chronic stress and negative emotions increase the release of stress hormones, which raise blood pressure and heart rate. “This persistent strain can lead to the buildup of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and events like heart attacks,” says Dr Kumbar. Additionally, negative emotions can lead to unhealthy behaviours like poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise, further exacerbating heart problems.

Also Read: 5 things to do to keep heart diseases away!

Can excessive anger cause a heart attack?

Yes, excessive anger can lead to heart problems and can potentially cause a heart attack. “Intense anger triggers the release of stress hormones, which increase heart rate and blood pressure, placing undue stress on the cardiovascular system. For individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors, this surge can lead to a heart attack,” says Dr Kumbar. It is crucial to manage anger through techniques like deep breathing, exercise, and seeking professional help when necessary.

How to control anger?

While anger might be a natural reaction to certain situations, short and intense bouts of anger can lead to heart problems, besides causing relationship problems. However, following some practical steps can help you control your anger. Steps such as thinking before you react, talking only once you are calm, as well as taking a break when required can help calm you down. Read here to learn more on how to control anger.

Summary

Anger can lead to not only mental distress but physical ailments as well. A recent study observed the effects of anger on your heart vessels. Your blood pressure and heart rate as well as immunity can be impacted by anger. Anger can also lead to back and neck aches as well as digestion problems.