Cardiac diseases have been the leading cause of mortalities in the world for a long time. Many factors contribute to cardiac diseases, and one such factor that has gained significant attention in recent years is stress.
Stress has been linked with high blood pressure, arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, and other cardiac diseases. In this article, we will discuss cardiac risk factors and the effect of stress on the human heart.
Cardiac Risk Factors
Cardiac risk factors are any factors that increase the likelihood of developing a cardiac disease. Some risk factors cannot be controlled, while others can be managed or prevented. The following are some of the most common cardiac risk factors:.
Age
As we get older, our risk of developing a cardiac disease increases. Ageing causes a reduction in the elasticity of the arteries, making them stiff and hard, which ultimately puts the heart under more stress.
Gender
Studies have shown that men are at a higher risk of developing cardiac diseases than women, especially before the age of 65. However, after menopause, a woman’s risk of developing cardiac diseases increases.
Family history
A family history of cardiac diseases increases the likelihood of developing a cardiac disease. A family may have a genetic predisposition for cardiac diseases, which will increase the chances of developing the disease.
Smoking
Smoking is a significant risk factor for cardiac diseases. Smoking causes the narrowing of the arteries, which reduces blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and arteries, leading to an increased likelihood of developing a cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes
People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing cardiac diseases. The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes cause damage to the arteries, making them more prone to developing atherosclerosis.
Physical inactivity
Physical inactivity is a risk factor for cardiac diseases. A sedentary lifestyle leads to an increase in obesity, high blood pressure, and other risk factors that can cause cardiac diseases.
High cholesterol
High levels of LDL cholesterol are a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis, which can lead to cardiac diseases.
The Effect of Stress on the Heart
Stress is the body’s natural response to certain situations. However, excessive stress can have significant negative effects on the body, including the heart.
When the human body experiences stress, it releases stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Chronic stress has been linked to several cardiac diseases, including:.
Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat. When stress hormones are released, they can cause the heart to beat erratically, leading to arrhythmias.
Atherosclerosis
Stress hormones can cause inflammation of the arteries, leading to the formation of plaque. This plaque can narrow the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which can cause cardiac diseases.
Myocardial Infarction
Myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack, occurs when the blood flow to the heart is interrupted because of a blockage in the coronary artery. Stress is a significant risk factor for a heart attack.
High Blood Pressure
As mentioned before, stress can increase blood pressure levels, leading to hypertension, which can cause cardiac diseases.
Conclusion
Cardiac diseases are a severe health concern worldwide, and several factors contribute to their development.
Stress has been linked to cardiac diseases, and it is essential to manage stress levels to reduce the likelihood of developing a cardiac disease. Exercise, a healthy diet, and mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation can help manage stress levels and improve overall health.
It is also essential to manage other cardiac risk factors, including smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels.
