Impact Of Stress On Heart Health: In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an inescapable part of life, affecting individuals of all ages, including the younger generation. What is often overlooked is the profound connection between stress and heart health, especially in the young. While heart disease is often considered an issue for older adults, increasing evidence shows that chronic stress can start taking a toll on cardiovascular health early in life.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Atul Mathur, Executive Director, Interventional Cardiology and Chief of Cath Lab, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla Road, New Delhi explained the connection between stress and heart health. 

The Stress-Heart Connection

Stress triggers the body’s "fight or flight" response, causing the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While these hormones are beneficial in short bursts, chronic stress can lead to persistently high levels of these chemicals, which increase heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can damage the blood vessels, contribute to the build-up of plaque, and increase the risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease. Stress also disrupts the body’s natural inflammatory processes, making young adults more susceptible to heart-related conditions.

Mental Health And Cardiovascular Risks

Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are closely linked to chronic stress, and both are known to increase the likelihood of developing heart problems. Young adults with poor mental health may also engage in harmful coping mechanisms, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or a sedentary lifestyle, further compounding their heart risks. Studies indicate that individuals with untreated depression are at a significantly higher risk of heart disease, even in their 20s and 30s.

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Impact Of Stress On Heart Health (Image Credits: Canva)

Protecting Young Heart

Managing stress is essential for protecting cardiovascular health. Encouraging young individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices, can help mitigate the damaging effects of stress. Seeking professional support for mental health issues like anxiety and depression is also crucial in preventing long-term harm to the heart.

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