Medical Minute: Social Isolation, Anger Among Emotional Risks For Heart Attacks, Studies Show

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., with more than 800,000 people experiencing a heart attack each year. For 200,000 of these individuals, it will be their second heart attack.

While poor diet, obesity, and lack of physical activity are well-known contributors to heart attacks, emotions can also play a significant role in heart health.

Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a heart attack. An unhealthy diet and conditions like obesity or diabetes are known factors that can lead to a heart attack, but there’s more to consider.

"The effect of social isolation and loneliness on our health is as powerful as things like smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity," according to experts. A report from the American Heart Association found that social isolation can increase the risk of a heart attack by 29%.

Anger is another emotion that can negatively impact heart health. A study from Columbia University found that after being angry, blood vessels are impaired for up to 40 minutes, which can lead to heart problems and potentially a heart attack.

Even extreme happiness can have negative effects. A European study revealed that people can experience a sudden weakening of the heart muscles following joyful events such as weddings, surprise parties, or sporting events.

To protect your heart from these emotional risks, experts recommend practices like yoga. "The practice is really about giving that person control back," said one expert. Deep breathing during yoga is calming and helps relieve stress if practiced regularly.

In addition, exercising for 30 minutes five times a week can improve heart health, and socializing with friends can lower the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks. "Don’t think about it. Just do it. You know, call somebody up and invite them to do something with you," advised one expert.

Participants in the Columbia University study on anger were all healthy and had no signs of heart disease or other chronic conditions.