Therefore, when we talk about stress in relation to disease, we are looking at the more negative stress. Physiological responses to stress include an increase in heart rate, an increase in blood pressure, and an increased rate of breathing. These symptoms are caused by the release of adrenaline, which also narrows your arteries, and results in a greater workload on the heart. If you are unable to control your stress, you may be at risk for high blood pressure and possibly injury to your artery walls which sets the stage for plaque deposits. Negative stress is a risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease.
Stress management is a learning process.
First, you need to identify the particular cause of your stress. Second, you need to take steps to change those circumstances that are stressful whenever possible. Third, you need to relearn ways to cope with stress in your everyday life. Remember that stress is our reaction to situations, not the situation itself. Often it helps to talk it out and get a different perspective of the situation while at the same time venting your concerns.