Everyone reacts to stress differently. The stress response can range from mild worry and discomfort to all-out panic, fear, and extreme distress. Responses in the latter category can affect your cardiovascular health and increase the risk of a heart attack. Here is what you need to know about the relationship between stress and your heart, as well as some stress-reduction tips.

How Stress Affects the Heart

When you are under stress, your body has automatic responses like a faster heart rate, quickening breath, and increased production of the stress hormone cortisol. Prolonged stress means more cortisol in your system, which has been linked with high blood pressure; higher levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose; and increased likelihood of blood clotting. All of these are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and heart attack.

Even low-level stress comes with risks. Because blood vessels tend to constrict when a person is stressed, their heart may not be receiving enough blood or oxygen. This, too, can lead to a heart attack or permanent damage to the heart muscle.

How to Reduce Stress

Exercise

Physical exercise is a natural stress reliever. It reduces cortisol and encourages production of the feel-good hormones called endorphins. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five days a week.

Meditate

Mindfulness meditation has been shown to lower stress levels. There are a variety of apps, books, and online videos that teach the basics of this simple technique, which essentially involves sitting quietly and observing one's breath and thoughts as they arise.

Find Support

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; in fact, it's a sign of strength and an investment in yourself and your health. It's not at all uncommon to have trouble managing stress, but a good support system will ensure you have someone to turn to in challenging times. Build a network of family members, close friends, trusted colleagues, and helping professionals who you can rely on and talk to when stress gets to be too much.

If you're concerned about stress and your heart, the cardiologists at Premier Cardiology Consultants are here to help. Since 2015, they have been serving Dothan, Andalusia, Ozark, and Enterprise, AL. They provide support for a wide range of cardiovascular issues, including heart disease, hypertension, and heart attack recovery. Call (334) 699-6396 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to browse their services.