Heart Disease and Stress

Heart Disease The leading killer of Americans A major cause of disability Different forms of heart disease Some are born with heart disease Heart may not pump well enough, causing heart failure Most common cause: narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (the blood vessels supply blood to the heart on its own)

What Causes Stress? By physical or emotion change A change in environment

How Does Stress Increase the Risk for Heart Disease? Stress is a risk factor High levels of stress lead to other factors High blood pressure (Hypertension) Change in blood clots

Affection on Stress Different people respond in different ways Some people may feel their lives more stressful than others

Relation between heart disease and stress Body gives out signals Easy to develop if you do not listen to your body and relax Worsen existing illness

Ways to release stress Exercise Eat healthy Do not take any medication (gives negative effects)

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