Scientists named a factor that can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke by 24%

0

A new study has shown that people who feel stressed are more likely to suffer heart attacks or strokes.

118,706 people from 21 countries participated in the study. Stressful events such as divorce, unemployment, bereavement, and serious illness among family members have been reported to be associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The overall increased risk was found to be 24 percent for heart attacks and 30 percent for strokes.

Previous research has shown that stress can have both long-term and short-term effects on the body.

This can cause the release of stress hormones that increase heart rate and blood pressure. People who experience a lot of stress are also more likely to smoke and drink alcohol, which increases the risk of heart attacks.

A Harvard study found that the part of the brain that processes stress can send signals that alter the immune system. activity and cause inflammation in the arteries.

The new study cannot determine whether stress has immediate or long-term effects.

“It is not known exactly what causes the increased risk of cardiovascular disease among people who are under severe stress. But stress can affect many different processes in the body, such as atherosclerosis and blood clotting. If we want to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease worldwide, we need to consider stress as another modifiable risk factor.

The NHS lists common physical symptoms of stress, such as headaches, aches in the muscles, stomach problems, chest pains and problems with sex. Mental symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, making decisions, remembering things, and feeling anxious and worried.