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. .
'The New York Times' reports that chronic
psychological stress may play a larger role
in heart health than traditional cardiac risk factors. .
According to a study published in November
in 'JAMA,' mental stress took a significantly
greater toll on the heart than physical stress. .
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. .
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. .
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. .
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. .
He says that regular physical exercise
can help control stress and prevent
the body-wide inflammation it can cause. .
Developing healthy sleep habits can
also help reduce the risk of damage
to your cardiovascular system. .
The 'NYT' points out that relaxation practices like mindfulness meditation, controlled breathing, yoga and tai chi can also help people cope with stress. .
Additionally, Dr. Osborne says that several
common medications can help. .
Statins reduce cholesterol and
counter arterial inflammation. .
Antidepressants, like ketamine, can also
help ease stress in people with depression
