There is a close relationship between human psychology and physiology and there are proven correlations such as ‘dopamine imbalance’ due to lack of sleep or ‘endorphin release’ potentially caused by social laughter, but the link between uncontrolled anger and hypertension is still not fully established. It is true that hypertension was earlier considered as a physical disorder only, however, it is now recognised as a multi-faceted condition influenced by genetic, environmental and psychosocial factors.
Silent Threat:
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ramakanta Panda, cardiac surgeon and chairman of the Asian Heart Institute, explained, “Indian pop culture is full of dramatic moments in cinema where an angry old man’s face turns red with blood and he clutches his heart and collapses and dies! Scientifically speaking, the path from anger to heart attack is not that simple, but there is growing evidence in favour of anger potentially leading to high blood pressure, a proven risk factor for heart disease.”
Psychological causes of heart disease:
A Gallup poll in 2021 revealed that anger, stress, anxiety and sadness were at record highs. Looking at the high incidence of ‘anger-related’ stress, Dr. Ramakanta Panda reveals that its connection with human physiology is worth understanding in depth in the following ways –
A. There is no conclusive evidence that anger itself causes long-term high blood pressure, but the imperative to ‘keep calm’ has never been greater. Reacting to anger in an unhealthy way can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of a heart attack – for example, people prone to anger may indulge in poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and lack of physical activity, all of which are risk factors for high blood pressure and heart disease.
B. Hormones produced by the body during emotional stress such as anger can damage arteries. This damage to the arteries can further lead to heart disease.
C. When the anger subsides, it can lead to depression and anxiety due to things said or done in anger. This can cause people to forget to take medicines to control high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.
D. While factors such as genetics and diet play an important role in the development of hypertension, psychological stress including anger has also been found to be involved in its pathogenesis.
AD Studies have shown that chronic stress and negative emotions, such as anger and hostility, can contribute to the development and increase of high blood pressure. When a person experiences anger, his or her body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can temporarily raise blood pressure. Prolonged exposure to such physiological responses can lead to persistent high blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular events.
Additionally, persistent anger and hostility can disrupt sleep patterns, increase inflammation, and negatively impact immune function, which may further impact heart health.
G. Imaging studies have revealed how acute and chronic stress, including anger, affect neural circuits involved in regulating blood pressure and heart function. Molecular and genetic studies have identified potential biomarkers and genetic predispositions that may contribute to individual differences in susceptibility to stress-related cardiovascular disorders.
It has become imperative to understand the importance of ‘measure your blood pressure correctly, control it, live longer’. The importance of hypertension and its relationship with daily behaviour cannot be overemphasised.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.