Hi and Welcome! February is National Heart Month, and my name is Dr. Sharon Friedman! I am a licensed psychologist and registered nurse at the Center for Integrative and Functional Health & Wellness in Bloomingdale. I have worked with cardiac patients after open-heart surgery and quickly learned how stress can significantly affect heart health.
Stress—especially chronic stress—has a direct impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD). The link between stress and heart disease is complex, involving both physical and behavioral factors. Here’s how stress increases your risk of heart problems:
1. Physiological Impact
Increased Heart Rate & Blood Pressure – Stress triggers adrenaline and cortisol, causing spikes in heart rate and blood pressure, which over time can strain the cardiovascular system.
🔥 Inflammation – Chronic stress contributes to inflammation, which plays a key role in plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
🩸 Blood Clotting – Stress may raise the likelihood of blood clots, further increasing heart disease risk.
2. Behavioral Factors
😴 Sleep Disruptions – Stress often leads to poor sleep, which is directly linked to heart disease and other health issues.
🍔 Dietary Choices – Stress can trigger cravings for unhealthy, high-fat, high-sugar foods, contributing to weight gain, high cholesterol, and heart problems.
3. Mental Health Impact
💔 Social Isolation – Stress can cause people to withdraw from social connections, and studies show that loneliness itself is a risk factor for heart disease.
4. Direct Cardiac Effects
📈 Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Long-term stress can lead to persistent high blood pressure, one of the most dangerous risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
5. Stress & Existing Heart Conditions
If you already have heart disease, stress can make it harder to manage your condition and may speed up disease progression. This is why stress management is critical for anyone with cardiovascular concerns.
Take Control of Your Heart Health Today! ❤️
While stress itself isn’t a direct cause of heart disease, prolonged and unmanaged stress significantly increases risk by affecting your body, mind, and behavior. The good news? You can take action!
✔ Practice relaxation techniques
✔ Exercise regularly
✔ Maintain a heart-healthy diet
✔ Build strong social connections
✔ Seek professional counseling if needed
📞 Call us today at 630-980-1400 to learn how to effectively manage stress, improve your quality of life, and reduce your risk of heart complications—one heartbeat at a time!