While there are many causes of heart disease, worry and stress can be risk factors.
While preventing some forms of stress is not possible, there are many things you can do to reduce stress-related heart problems. As a heart disease survivor, I can tell you (along with my family history) that stress also played a part with my diagnosis. As women, we worry about everything. Why? Our worries and stresses are based on emotions, and that can surely contribute to the development of heart disease.
I recently happened upon a statement about worry: "Worry is like a good rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere." Another way to think of the futility of worry is to imagine someone carrying around a suitcase of old junk that they don't use. If she complained to you about her aching back, wouldn't you suggest she drop the suitcase?
There is a portion of scripture where we are warned about worry in Luke 12:26. "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Don't get caught up in worrying that you fail to enjoy the pleasures God provides each of us each day.
What can you do to reduce stress? Try to identify any specific situations in your life that cause you to experience stress. Try to avoid, alter or limit those situations as much as you possibly can. Participate in some effective stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises, aerobic exercises, Yoga, or just a walk in your neighborhood.
What is your risk for heart disease? The following is a risk factor quiz for women by Dr. Richard N. Fogoros, M.D. It's a true or false quiz, for each "true" statement; give yourself the number of points indicated:
1. My parents or siblings have had a premature (before age 55 for men, or age 65 for women) heart attack, stroke, bypass surgery or angioplasty. (2 points)
2. I am age 55 or older, or post-menopausal. (1 point)
3. I am a smoker. (2 points)
4. I do not routinely exercise for at least 30 minutes, 4 times per week. (1 point)
5. My blood pressure is over 120/80. (1 point) I have diabetes or take medication for my blood sugar (2 points)
6. My HDL cholesterol is less than 50 mg/dl, or my total cholesterol is greater than 240 mg/dl, or I don't know my cholesterol levels (1 point)
7. I am 20 pounds or more overweight (1 point)
8. I am taking birth control pills (nonsmokers add 1 point, smokers add 2 points)
9. My blood CRP (C-Reactive Protein) level is elevated (1 point)
10. I have metabolic syndrome. (2 points) (Metabolic syndrome is any three of the following: high blood sugar, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, hypertension, and central obesity ("fat belly."))
Add up your points. If your score is 5 or higher, your risk of developing heart disease is high. If your score is 2 - 4, your risk is moderate. If your score is 0 - 1, your risk is low. If your risk is high, you need see a doctor soon for a cardiac evaluation, and for help with aggressive risk modification. If your risk is moderate, you should see a doctor for a complete risk assessment and for guidance in risk modification.
Stayed tuned for my next blog on more heart disease risk factors and remember: "Life is a Gift!"