Getting angry every now and then is pretty normal. In fact, most people get angry at least once a day. However, there’s a difference between mild irritation and extreme rage.

Prolonged episodes of intense anger, such as road rage, can put your health at risk. According to a new study, it was disclosed that increased risk of stroke can be caused by a two-hour episode of rage.

The Study

A new study found that can increase a person’s risk of ischemic stroke in the following hours and days.

Researchers at Australia’s Royal Adelaide Hospital reviewed 13 studies from around the world that investigated the effects of intense anger on heart health. The findings revealed that the risk of stroke increased by 8.3 times in the hours following an intense outburst of anger.

The study has also shown that the risk of heart attack is markedly increased if the person is already at risk due to pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

How Anger Affects the Body

Risk Factors Increase the Risk of Stroke

Pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are already leading causes of stroke. However, the risk of stroke is further amplified when combined with episodes of rage or intense anger.

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and a lack of physical activity are other known risk factors that can lead to a stroke.

What You Can Do

Managing your anger and reducing your levels of stress is essential for good health. Recognize when you’re feeling angry and take steps to calm down. Try engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Finding a regular exercise routine and getting enough sleep can also help reduce stress levels. Addressing the underlying factors that trigger your anger, such as common problems at work or home, can also help.

Conclusion

It’s natural to feel angry from time to time. However, it is important to be mindful of your levels of anger and to find constructive ways of dealing with them.

Rage-induced strokes are rare compared to other types of stroke but can still have serious consequences. If you feel that your anger is getting out of control, talk to a healthcare professional to get help.