Researchers have recently discovered a correlation between heart disease, mental stress and migraines. In two different observational studies, experts found acute mental stress lead to higher risks of cardiovascular illnesses while recurring migraines, particularly in women, doubles the risk of stroke or heart attack.
The Serious Link Between Mental Stress And Cardiovascular Events
Based on the research conducted by St. Thomas' Hospital and King's College London, acute mental stress caused by sporting events like the Olympics and the World Cup as well as earthquakes can increase the risks of adverse cardiac conditions such as heart attacks. According to Medical Xpress, researchers analyzed and measured the blood pressure and speed of blood flow in the coronary arteries when metal stress is triggered.
The results showed a rise in blood pressure and heart rate during mental stress, indicating an increase of heart muscle's oxygen demand. Due to this findings, researchers were able to determine the effects of mental stress to the condition of the heart.
"These preliminary results show a clear association between mental stress and effects on the heart that are particularly concerning for people with coronary heart disease," Dr. Satpal Arri said. "In the short term, our findings suggest that it's important that doctors are aware that mental stress may pose a risk for some people with coronary heart disease so they can then advise and treat patients accordingly to minimize that risk."
Arri, a BHF Research Fellow at King's College London and Cardiology Registrar at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, however, revealed there are currently no specific treatments available to counteract the effects of mental stress to the heart, Daily Mail notes. But Arri was hopeful that their findings will pave the way to find and create treatments for mental stress and eventually lower the risks for fatal heart conditions.
The Connection Between Recurring Migraines And Heart Diseases
Aside from mental stress, recurring migraines also have a serious connection to heart problems, particularly on women. In a study published in the BMJ, experts found women over 20 years of age who experienced frequent headaches have the potential to suffer from stroke or heart attacks.
Even though the reasons behind the link remain unclear, a theory suggests it may be due to progesterone, a hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle. In fact, an increase in progesterone levels has shown an increasing risk of adverse cardiovascular events, Shape reports.
"The primary outcomes of the study was major cardiovascular disease, a combined endpoint of myocardial infarction, stroke, or fatal cardiovascular disease," the study authors said, as per HCPLive MD. "Secondary outcome measures included individual endpoints of myocardial infarction, stroke, angina/coronary revascularization procedures, and cardiovascular mortality."
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