Can anger cause a stroke?

Anger is a normal emotional response that everyone experiences from time to time. For most people, anger is manageable and doesn’t result in any long-term negative impacts. For those with problematic anger, the results may be aggressive behavior and cardiovascular health concerns.

While anger does get a bad reputation and can be uncomfortable, it also has some upsides. Anger can be a powerful tool of awareness that lets us know when someone has wronged us or others, or when an injustice has occurred. Those feelings may prompt us to take action that results in positive outcomes.

When we experience anger, the body response with the same physiological process that is normally triggered by fear. The stress response cycle in the body causes hormones like adrenaline to flood the body, which results in a faster heart rate and higher blood pressure. High blood pressure associated with a quick bout of anger is unlikely to trigger a cardiac event like a stroke, but it can happen.

Anger may be especially concerning when it is chronic or a response to chronic stress. This may result in high blood pressure more often than not and increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you experience anger that disrupts your day on more days than not, feel anger very intensely, or find it difficult to manage your anger, talking with your doctor may be warranted.

Doctors sometimes treat anger with certain drugs usually used for the treatment of high blood pressure, which are also thought to suppress the body’s stress response cycle. Your doctor may also refer you for therapy, anger management, or recommend certain lifestyle changes. Some of the lifestyle changes often recommended are:

• Learning stress management techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness
• Attending an anger management class or group counseling program
• Spending time in enjoyable activities
• Attending therapy to learn positive assertion, communication skills, and relaxation techniques
• Getting adequate sleep
• Eating a nutritious diet
• Changing your environment when possible, to minimize stress and anger

Anger usually isn’t a cause of major health problems in a single episode, but rather can contribute to the development of cardiovascular health events and risks over time. If you’re concerned about your level of anger, stress, or cardiovascular health, talk with your doctor.