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Health Alliance Healthy Living For Your Heart

 

December 97
Managing Stress For A Healthier Heart

A little stress may be good for you. Minor stress can help you to set priorities at work and home.

Stress is a part of life. Any change or event, pleasant or unpleasant, can cause stress. We all managing stress for a healthier hearthave our own limit to the amount of stress we can tolerate. A little stress may be good for you. Minor stress can help you to set priorities at work and home.

How you handle stress determines whether it is helpful or harmful. If you pass your stress limit, you may experience physical or emotional changes, which result in illness.

Identify what is stressful for you. Notice when stress interferes with your life. Ask yourself: “When do I show signs of too much stress? How often does this happen?” Whatever the cause or level, stress is known to increase heart rate and blood pressure, making your heart work harder.

Warning Signs Of Stress

How do you know when stress is becoming harmful? Look for signs like:

  •  Sleep problems
  •  Frequent crying
  •  Irritability
  •  Headache, chest, back or stomach pain
  •  Lack of patience
  •  Accidents
  •  Excessive eating or drinking
  •  Allergy flare-ups or skin rashes
  •  Rapid breathing
  •  Lack of energy

Stress Beaters

Here’s some suggestions to beat the stress:

  • Plan time for relaxation to break the pattern of tension and fatigue
  • Practice relaxation techniques like positive imaging
  • Dance
  • Meditate or pray in a quiet, dim room
  • Practice time management skill
  • Read
  • Listen to music
  • Talk with friends
  • Start a hobby
  • Write a letter to a friend
  • Keep a diary
  • Avoid or walk away from a stressful situation

If you are concerned about your blood pressure, contact your physician.  If you need a physician, call 1-888-749-DrDr or click here. 



Find a Physician 1-888-749-DRDR


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Updated 12/06/05
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