Stress: A threat to heart health and ways to mitigate it
Chronic stress increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by contributing to elevated heart rate and blood pressure, the development of arrhythmias, and the worsening of existing heart conditions. Regular physical exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet can help reduce these negative effects.
"In stressful situations, activity in the sympathoadrenal system increases, triggering a cascade of reactions that lead to arrhythmias, the development of atherosclerosis, and other adverse clinical conditions", explains Valeriu Revenco, a cardiologist and university professor, on the Radio Moldova program "Sănătate pentru toți".
Reducing stress begins with managing daily activities more effectively. The cardiologist recommends avoiding overcommitment and setting realistic goals tailored to each individual's capacity. An overloaded schedule can become a constant source of mental strain, especially when the tasks undertaken exceed available time and resources.
Beyond time management, regular physical activity supports heart health and improves overall well-being. Adequate sleep and a balanced diet are also crucial for managing stress and reducing factors that can harm the cardiovascular system.
The effects of prolonged stress are particularly severe for individuals already suffering from hypertension or those with a history of heart attack. According to the cardiologist, persistent psychological stress and negative thinking can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Furthermore, depression can be linked to chronic emotional stress and requires attention.
"Recent studies show that negative thinking and constant stress increase the number of patients suffering heart attacks and sudden cardiac death. In patients who have already had a heart attack or have hypertension, these factors lead to major cardiovascular complications," states Valeriu Revenco. The doctor notes that people react to stress differently. Vulnerability varies from person to person, and identifying individual methods for managing psychological tension can help mitigate its effects.
Adopting a balanced lifestyle and managing stress effectively are important ways to protect cardiovascular health. For individuals with hypertension or other heart conditions, medical monitoring and adherence to a specialist's recommendations remain essential to prevent complications.
Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the most serious public health issues in the Republic of Moldova and the leading cause of death in the country. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Moldova, in 2025, diseases of the circulatory system accounted for approximately 56.6% of all deaths recorded nationwide.
