Long-Term Stress Damage

Long-term stress comes in many forms: a stressful situation; excessive anything such as too little sleep, too much drinking, too much exercise, too little exercise, working too hard or too long; etc.; allergic reactions to food or chemicals; pollution, smoke, or improper respiratory protection against airborne particles; chemical additives; sugar substitutes; and on and on. Here is an explanation of the mechanisms through which long-term stress can damage the heart:

1. Prolonged release of adrenaline. Prolonged release of adrenaline elevates your heart rate and increases muscle tension. Constant muscle tension can lead to muscle scarring, also called fibrosis. Scar tissue in the heart can interfere with your electrical impulses in your heart. (If you are on Beta-Blockers to control the rate of your heart, you will identify with this mechanism. Beta-Blockers control the amount of adrenaline and control the rate of heart beats.)
2. Decreased blood flow. This can lead to ischemia. (Be sure to be tested for ischemia.)
3. Increased manufacture of aldosterone. Aldosterone can constrict arteries, interfere with the proper balance of minerals such as sodium or calcium, and raise blood pressure.
4. Depletion of key minerals. Magnesium, potassium, and iodine may become depleted. All of these or any one of these, when insufficient or depleted can contribute to heart irregularities. Low iodine can lead to hypothyroidism-- a low functioning thyroid.

May you unwind and relax.