Signs of Stress on Your Heart – Expert Insights

Recognizing Stress on Your Heart: 8 Telltale Signs

In today’s fast-paced world, where demanding schedules and constant connectivity are the norm, it’s crucial to be aware of how chronic stress can impact heart health. Dr. Amit Kumar Chaurasia, Chief Cath Lab and TAVI (Unit I) at Artemis Hospital Gurugram, sheds light on eight signs that may indicate undue stress on the heart and suggests proactive steps to manage it effectively.

1. Persistent Fatigue: Constant tiredness, even after seemingly adequate sleep, could signal heightened stress levels. Chronic stress may disrupt sleep patterns, leading to increased fatigue during the day.

2. Difficulty Sleeping: Stress can initially cause sleep difficulties and eventually progress to insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. Addressing sleep issues promptly is crucial, as lack of quality sleep is associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

3. Frequent Headaches: Persistent headaches, especially tension headaches, may indicate elevated stress levels. Stress-related muscle tension and blood vessel constriction can trigger headaches, emphasizing the need for stress management strategies.

4. Digestive Issues: Stress impacts the digestive system, potentially causing indigestion, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. The gut-heart connection highlights the importance of addressing digestive issues to maintain heart health.

5. Increased Blood Pressure: The relentless demands of a high-paced lifestyle may contribute to elevated stress levels, leading to increased blood pressure—a well-known risk factor for heart disease. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial, especially in the presence of stress-related symptoms.

6. Muscle Tension and Pain: Chronic stress can manifest as physical symptoms like muscle tension and pain, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back. Prolonged muscle tension can impact blood circulation and strain the cardiovascular system.

7. Changes in Eating Habits: Stress can influence eating habits, leading to overeating or undereating. Unhealthy eating patterns, as a coping mechanism, may impact cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.

8. Irritability and Mood Swings: Increased irritability, moodiness, or anger may indicate that stress is affecting emotional well-being. The release of stress hormones can impact mood and potentially affect heart health.

Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, is crucial for maintaining heart health in the face of a hectic lifestyle.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Zee News}