Stress Increases the Likelihood of Atherosclerosis Development

A workplace stress is an increasingly common problem today that can pose numerous health risks. Continuous pressure and stressful situations affect not only mental health but also physical health. Most people experience various forms of stress caused by workplace expectations, deadlines, and personal issues. This type of stress can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The Impact of Stress on Health

The impact of stress on health is particularly concerning, as many people are unaware of how deeply anxiety and pressure affect the body’s functioning. The effects of stress accumulate over time and can lead to various health problems as a response from the body. Experts emphasize that the importance of managing stress extends beyond mental health to encompass physical well-being as well.

The Relationship Between Stress and Atherosclerosis

The connections between workplace stress and atherosclerosis are becoming increasingly evident. Research suggests that stress can accelerate the process of atherosclerosis by up to 46 percent, particularly among those who are more sensitive to pressure. Those who are continuously exposed to stress due to their workplace responsibilities often experience thickening of the carotid arteries and the deposition of calcified plaques.

These plaques can lead to serious issues over time, such as a complete blockage of the artery, which can cause a heart attack. Thus, stress affects not only our well-being but also our physiological condition. Studies have shown that 20-30 percent of heart attacks may be linked to psychological stress, warning us that mental strain can have serious physical consequences.

The psychosocial factors of stress often prove to be stronger risk factors than smoking, high blood pressure, or obesity. Therefore, it is crucial to pay special attention to stress management and prevention, as a proper lifestyle and effective handling of stressful situations can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The Consequences of Narrowing

The process of atherosclerosis begins with the accumulation of fats following damage to the walls of blood vessels. The fats that enter the vessel walls are engulfed by white blood cells and eventually turn into calcified plaques. These plaques may also contain calcium, making them more brittle. The elasticity of arteries decreases, and the vessel walls thicken.

Platelets adhere to the surface of the plaques, further reducing the diameter of the vessel. This can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can completely block the interior of the vessel. The process of atherosclerosis can start at a young age and often develops gradually and asymptomatically for years until problems become noticeable.

Cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks or arterial narrowing, occur when plaques or blood clots obstruct blood flow in a specific area. Therefore, early detection and prevention are essential to avoid severe complications.

The Importance of Screening

Arteriography is an effective method for detecting early atherosclerosis. This painless procedure measures the speed of the pulse wave using a cuff placed on the upper arm, indicating the elasticity of the blood vessels. Stiffer arteries result in faster blood flow, which shows a high pulse wave speed, thereby indicating the initial signs of atherosclerosis.

Although the examination does not provide new information regarding existing vascular diseases, it can be useful for monitoring the effects of medication. It is particularly recommended for those who have risk factors such as high blood sugar, a stressful lifestyle, being over 50 years old, elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, a family history of heart and brain attacks, a sedentary lifestyle, or smoking.

Stress as a Public Health Issue

Stress is not only a problem for working people; it is becoming increasingly common among both young and older individuals. Initially, the body can compensate for stress, but neglecting stress management over the long term can lead to serious health problems. To reduce stress, it is essential to establish a proper lifestyle, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and effectively manage stressful situations.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and mastering stress management techniques can contribute to preserving mental and physical health, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Stress as a public health issue deserves serious attention, as it can impact our quality of life and long-term health.