A recent study finds that an angry outburst raises the risk of heart issues in the hours following the incident. Research shows that the increase in heart rate and blood pressure after a fight or similar occurrence can lead to more serious consequences such as heart attack or stroke.

 

Study authors analyzed data of more than 6,000 cardiac cases and found that a person’s risk of heart attack and angina is five times greater within two hours after an angry outburst. Likewise, stroke and ventricular arrhythmia risk also increased.

 

The researchers noted that the increased threat was the highest among people who go angry more often. In addition, those with existing risk factors such as prior heart problems and other health issues also face greater possibility of experiencing a heart attack or stroke after an angry outburst.

 

Just another reason to try to keep calm and carry on.

 

Source: Mostofsky E, Penner E, Mittleman M. Outbursts of anger as a trigger of acute cardiovascular events: a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Heart Journal, First published online: 4 March 2014: 1404-1410. DOI: //dx.doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehu033.

Angry Heart Attack