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Stress Unleashes 'Bad Actors' Damaging Your Heart
29 May
Summary
- Chronic stress elevates immune response, activating 'bad actors' that harm the heart.
- Stress can cause brain communication breakdown, leading to cardiovascular narrowing.
- Study reveals inflammation hotspots in the brain and vasculature due to chronic stress.
Mount Sinai is conducting research into the profound effects of stress on the cardiovascular system, identified as the leading cause of death in the U.S. Manny Costa, a customer service engineer, participated in the study, experiencing mental fatigue and physical soreness due to high stress levels.
Dr. Zahi Fayad and neuroimaging expert David O'Connor are investigating the connection between brain activity and cardiovascular health under stress. They explain that stress activates brain areas, elevating the immune system and introducing 'bad actors' that can precipitate heart attacks and strokes. Chronic stress can degrade brain communication, potentially causing plaque buildup and narrowing in blood vessels.
Their findings indicate 'hot spots' in the brain and inflamed vasculature in individuals with chronic stress. This research is prompting cardiologists to inquire about stress levels during patient visits. Participants like Costa found the study informative, encouraging them to adopt coping techniques such as deep breathing and relaxation to manage stress.
