A Killer Emotion
Previously, studies suggest a contributory role of the neural circuitry that drives anger, anxiety, and depression to raise the risks of cardiovascular events. Thomas Buckley, from Royal North Shore Hospital (Australia), and colleagues assessed 313 patients hospitalized with acute coronary occlusion, who reported an angry outburst in the 48 hours prior to myocardial infarction. Data analysis revealed that the risk of heart attack is 8.5-times higher in the two hours following a burst of intense anger. Further, y, increased anxiety associated with coronary occlusion. The study authors submit that: “Further study, including the role of potential modifiers, may provide insight into prevention of [myocardial infarction] during acute emotional episodes.”`