What is stress?

What are the symptoms of stress?

Physical

• Racing heart
• Sweating
• Pain
• Fatigue
• Muscle tension
• Migraine
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Insomnia

Emotional

• Anxiety
• Fear
• Anger
• Frustration
• Depression

Behavioural

• Aggressive behaviour – verbal or nonverbal
• Escape behaviours (such as sleeping or drinking)
• Poor diet (skipping meals or eating more)
• Avoiding things
• Lack of exercise
• Isolation

Cognitive

• Negative thoughts and ideas
• Poor judgment
• Memory impairment

Types of stress

• Acute stress: This is short-term stress resulting from specific events and is the body's reaction to situations that involve challenges, unpredictability or perceived threat. This type of stress helps an individual manage dangerous situations. Nearly everybody experiences acute stress. It usually goes away quickly.

• Chronic stress: This is a type of stress that goes on for weeks or months at a stretch. A person may become so used to chronic stress that he or she may fail to identify it as a problem. Financial issues, unhappy relationships, or poor work-life balance are some of the factors that may lead to chronic stress. Left untreated, chronic stress can cause health problems.

Effects of chronic stress on heart health

• Elevated blood pressure
• Increased inflammation in the body
• Surge in cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood
• Increased risk of arrhythmias (heart rhythm disorders), obesity, and diabetes.

Tips to manage stress and protect heart health

• Stay positive: According to various studies, heart disease patients with a positive attitude are more likely to outlive those with a negative attitude. In fact, a good laugh can play a key role in improving heart health. People who laugh more have lower levels of stress hormones, less inflammation in the arteries, and more HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or "good" cholesterol.
• Meditate: Meditation has been found to be effective against hypertension - a major risk factor for heart disease. Even yoga and prayer can help relax the mind and body.
• Exercise: Engaging in physical activity or exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, a type of mood-boosting chemicals. Exercising offers multiple benefits. It reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, strengthens the muscles of the heart, and assists in maintaining a healthy weight.
• Unplug: Sometimes, it is important to leave everything behind and focus on oneself. Avoid social media and TV news. Take out some time each day - even 15 to 20 minutes - to escape from the world.
• Develop a stress relief strategy: All of us are different. As a result, what works for one may not work for everybody. People must identify what works for them be it listening to music, reading a book, or playing a favourite sport.

Conclusion

Talk to a Cardiologist