A study conducted by researchers from various institutions including Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Yale School of Medicine, sought to investigate the impact of anger on the heart. They recruited 280 healthy young adults and randomized them into four groups: a control group and groups who recalled events that made them angry, sad, or anxious. Blood samples and measurements were taken before and after the emotional stimulation. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, indicated that anger may impair blood vessel function, leading to reduced dilation.
The study found that among individuals in the angry group, blood vessel dilation was significantly reduced compared to those in the control group. This impairment was not observed in the sadness and anxiety groups. Blood vessel dilation is regulated by endothelial cells that line the inside of blood vessels. The study discovered that there was no damage to these cells or to the body’s ability to repair any potential damage, the issue was solely with the dilation. Impairment of blood vessel dilation can be an early indicator of atherosclerosis, a condition that can ultimately lead to heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and other health issues.
These results have important implications for individuals with heart disease and anger issues. Managing anger through techniques such as yoga, exercise, or cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial in preserving vascular health. Dr. Holly Middlekauff, a cardiologist, and professor at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine emphasized that the study offers a biological explanation for the link between anger and heart health and can potentially inspire patients to take action in managing their anger. However, the researchers cautioned that further research is necessary to fully understand how anger impairs blood vessel dilation.
The study focused on young, healthy individuals without chronic conditions, which is both a strength and a limitation. Future research should include populations with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and individuals from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The study also only examined one episode of provoked anger, and future studies should explore the vascular function of chronically angry individuals. Understanding the mechanisms by which anger affects heart health can provide insight into preventive strategies for managing anger and reducing the risk of heart-related issues. Overall, the study sheds light on the importance of addressing anger as a potential risk factor for heart health.
