Managing stress and anger can do your heart good

It’s totally understandable to feel upset at times. In small doses, anger and stress serve a useful purpose by alerting you to problems and challenges in your life. But if the feelings are too frequent or intense, your health may suffer—and your heart could pay the price.

It’s especially important to manage stress and anger when you have coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure. Overwhelming stress or anger might make your heart problems worse by:

• Raising your blood pressure and heart rate
• Making your arteries squeeze tight, increasing the risk for coronary microvascular disease
• Triggering angina (chest pain) in some people

To keep stress and anger from spiraling out of control, try these tips:

• Call a time-out in tense situations. Step away if you can. Take deep, calming breaths and collect your thoughts before reacting.
• Get physical activity every day.
• Find healthy ways to relax, such as meditating or calling a friend.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress or anger, you might benefit from talking with a counselor or taking part in a stress management program. Ask your health care provider for recommendations.

Your first step to a healthy heart

Because we understand how deeply a heart condition can impact you and your family, Touro provides a full spectrum of cardiac care, from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation. For more information, visit touro.com/heart or call 504.897.8276.

About Dr. Cartwright

I specialize in Cardiovascular Disease. With over 7 years of experience, I understand that heart disease is one of the leading health problems in the world, and with constant advancement in the field I continue to adapt care for my patients to work towards a healthier future.

A Little Extra about me: My wife is from New Orleans and I have embraced New Orleans with all my heart and strive to better the area. And Go Saints! Who Dat!