Depression May Increase Stroke Risk

If the human body is in a state of emotional excitement, mental stress orDepressed moodConditions like these can lead to cardiovascular disease. Cardiologists point out that among related conditions, depression is most strongly linked to heart disease. Studies have shown that depression nearly doubles the risk of stroke; and for patients diagnosed with heart disease who also struggle with emotional issues, the risk of a recurrence increases by twofold. Doctors explain that negative emotions not only affect physiological functions but also alter lifestyles. Some people resort to smoking and drinking to relieve stress, which in turn increases their risk of cardiovascular disease.

The impact of emotional distress on cardiovascular health can be categorized as both direct and indirect. Dr. Xu Jianlin, a cardiologist and board member of the Hong Kong College of Cardiologists, stated that emotional fluctuations can directly affect the function of the vascular lining, leading to vasoconstriction, platelet abnormalities, or fat accumulation, which can in turn cause embolism. Furthermore, long-term emotional distress can lead to unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcoholism, and overeating. Coupled with a lack of motivation and reduced exercise, these habits can make it difficult to control risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease. Age increases the risk.

Xu Jianlin mentioned that heart disease may recur, and many patients who have suffered from it will worry about it recurring. He gave an example, saying that many patients would seek medical treatment for minor muscle pain, dizziness and other symptoms, fearing that it was a recurrence of heart disease, but after diagnosis, it was confirmed that it was not a recurrence of heart disease. He also said that about two-thirds of stroke patients would be unable to resume normal life or work due to the impact of the disease, resulting inemotional problems, which in turn increases the risk of another stroke or heart attack. Xu Jianlin pointed out that each time a patient has an attack, the heart muscle and blood vessels will be further damaged, thereby increasing the risk of death.

The symptoms of heart disease and mood disorders can sometimes be very similar. Xu Jianlin explains that chest pain is both a common symptom of heart disease and a symptom of anxiety. Doctors will observe the difference in pain experienced by patients during exercise and at rest. Chest pain typically caused by cardiovascular issues occurs during exercise when the body's blood supply demands increase. If the patient stops exercising, the pain subsides. If the patient experiences chest pain both during exercise and at rest, it's more likely to be caused by emotional issues. Doctors will further monitor cardiovascular status through tests such as exercise electrocardiograms to determine the cause of the chest pain and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Regardless of whether you have heart disease or not, experts urge people to find their own way to relieve stress, such as listening to music, reading, etc. If you have had or been diagnosed with heart disease, you can participate in rehabilitation training or exercise training after seeing a doctor to rebuild your physical fitness. Exercise helps regulate stress hormones and has a positive effect onCardiovascular healthIt has positive effects and is beneficial to overall health. Additionally, eating a light diet, strictly controlling cholesterol intake, and getting enough sleep are all ways to maintain health. When encountering controversial issues, it's important to remain calm and avoid arguments, as these can lead to emotional upset and damage to cardiovascular health.