Chronic Stress Can Cause Symptoms Similar To A Heart Attack
It Is Called Broken Heart Syndrome And Can Be Triggered By A Stressful Emotional Episode
Stress promotes the production of cortisol, a hormone that prepared the body for potential danger. In the case of chronic stress, the excessive production of cortisol can result in organ damage, affecting the cardiovascular system, brain kidneys, and liver, among others. Stress can cause a condition called stress-induced cardiomyopathy, which can result in a heart attack. This is because chronic stress increases blood pressure and heartbeat. It is also related to other heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart disease, heart failure, and tachycardia. A sudden increase in stress levels can cause a “broken heart syndrome”, which feels like a heart attack, including shortness of breath and chest pain. It can be caused by emotional events such as the sudden death of a loved one. In comparison, a real heart attack occurs when there is a blockage in an artery to the heart. In the case of stress-induced cardiomyopathy, there is no artery blockage, but the heat fails to pump blood efficiently. This condition can be avoided by reducing emotional stress using meditation, exercise, and mindfulness. Additional information click here.