Frequent experiences of anger not only complicate day-to-day life but also increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Although the link between negative emotions and cardiovascular diseases has long been established, the underlying reasons remained unclear until recent findings by researchers at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York.
The team discovered that sudden bouts of anger can disrupt the function of the endothelium—the inner lining of blood vessel walls. This dysfunction, which regulates the narrowing and widening of vessels and thrombus formation, is considered an initial step towards atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
The researchers emphasize the importance of further investigating the mechanisms underlying the connections between anger, anxiety, and endothelial dysfunction to devise effective treatments.
In their study, scientists used the EndoPAT2000 device on 280 volunteers to measure responses in blood vessel dilation and constriction using a blood pressure cuff placed on the wrist.
Results indicated that anger impairs endothelial function, with this disruption lasting for about 40 minutes following the emotional episode.
The research team hopes their discovery will lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches for treating heart diseases.
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