In order to handle stress in a positive way and prevent it from becoming harmful, you need to evaluate and understand the causes of stress in your life and how you react to them. Medical researchers aren't sure exactly how stress increases the risk of heart disease. Stress itself might be a risk factor, or it could be that high levels of stress make other risk factors worse. For example, if you are under stress, your blood pressure goes up, you may overeat, you may exercise less and you maybe more likely to smoke. If stress is an independent risk factor, it could because chronic stress exposes your body to unhealthy, persistently elevated levels of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
Studies also link stress to changes in the way blood clots.
This increases the risk of heart attack. Your heart pounds, your blood pressure rises, your muscles tense, the pupils of your eyes open wide. People respond in different ways to events and situations. One person may find an event joyful and gratifying, but another person may find the same event miserable and frustrating. Some people do their best when their lives are filled with activity, while others may prefer a slower pace.