An Upsurge in Sudden Cardiac Arrest - Causes and How to Prevent It.
Every day, millions of people experience mental stress as a normal part of their lives. Whether due to work, family obligations, or any other number of commitments, mental stress is an unavoidable consequence of life. Unfortunately, mental stress can have more severe effects on one’s health than most people realize, putting those who are exposed to it at risk for heart attacks.
The link between mental stress and heart attack is two-fold. First, mental stress significantly promotes inflammation throughout the body, setting off a chain reaction that can lead to heart attack. This inflamation is caused by an increase in cortisol, a hormone that affects brain function, stress levels, and the immune system. When cortisol levels are too high, the body begins to rely on cholesterol for energy, which then causes an increase in arterial plaque. This plaque restricts the flow of blood to the heart and can result in a heart attack.
The second way in which mental stress increases the risk of heart attack is by significantly elevating one’s blood pressure. This happens when the body triggers a “fight-or-flight” response, sending adrenaline and other stress hormones into the veins and arteries. This, in turn, causes a spike in blood pressure, resulting in a cycle of spiky, high blood pressure. This can further lead to a heart attack, as a high blood pressure can result in cardiac arrest, stroke, and other forms of heart disease.
Finally, mental stress can also lead to physical fatigue, emotional exhaustion, and an increased heart rate. This combination of symptoms can rapidly lead to a heart attack due to the excessive strain it places on the heart. It is no surprise then, that mental stress is often one of the leading triggers for heart attack in those who suffer from an already weak or vulnerable heart.
The best way to reduce one’s risk of a heart attack due to mental stress is to take steps to reduce stress levels.
This can be done through peaceful activities such as praying Salah, Remembrance of Allah, and Exercise. It is also important to make sure to get enough rest and relaxation, as well as a healthy diet filled with vitamins, minerals, and lean proteins. Taking care of one’s mental health is integral in ensuring cardiovascular health.
Mental stress can have a lasting, dangerous effect on the body in the form of a heart attack. The cause of this is twofold - an overproduction of cortisol, resulting in inflammation, and an increase in adrenaline, resulting in a raise in blood pressure. Reducing stress levels can thus be the difference between life and death for those with vulnerable hearts. Looking after one’s mental health is thus an essential step in staying safe from heart attacks due to mental stress.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mohammed Abdul Samed is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who has also studied Stress Management, Positive Psychology, Cognitive Fitness from Harvard Medical School and is also taking part in community Engage research at Harvard Catalyst's.
He help people to figure out their issues related to mental health such as depression, anxiety, trauma and enable them to address the issue by means of therapy to relieve their mental stress and gain back their focus on there daily life.
