Here’s a translation of the interview in the program “El Termómetro” on Radio Libertad on April 13th, 2023, about how to manage anxiety and stress to avoid heart attacks:
Host: Welcome to the program “El Termómetro” on Radio Libertad. Today we will talk about a very important topic: how to manage anxiety and stress to avoid heart attacks. For this, we have invited Dr. Juan Garcia, a cardiologist and expert in prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Welcome, Dr. Garcia!
Dr. Juan Garcia: Thank you very much, it’s a pleasure to be here.
Host: Why can anxiety and stress increase the risk of a heart attack?
Dr. Juan Garcia: Anxiety and stress are factors that can increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing rate, which can put more stress on the heart. In addition, when we are anxious or stressed, we tend to adopt unhealthy habits such as overeating, smoking, drinking excessive alcohol and sleeping poorly, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Host: What advice can you give our listeners to manage anxiety and stress?
Dr. Juan Garcia: First, it is important to recognize situations that generate anxiety and stress and seek healthy ways to deal with them. This can include relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga, reading, listening to relaxing music, among others.
Second, it is essential to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as a balanced diet, regular physical exercise, adequate sleep and avoiding the use of harmful substances such as tobacco and alcohol.
Finally, it is important not to underestimate the importance of rest and leisure time. Adequate rest and enjoying pleasurable activities can help reduce anxiety and stress and prevent health problems such as heart attacks.
Host: Is there any relationship between anxiety, stress and coronary artery disease?
Dr. Juan Garcia: Yes, several studies have shown that anxiety and stress can increase the risk of coronary artery disease. In fact, it has been shown that people with high levels of anxiety and stress have a higher risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.
Host: How can listeners know if they are experiencing excessive anxiety or stress?
Dr. Juan Garcia: The symptoms of anxiety and stress can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include sweating, palpitations, shortness of breath, headache, muscle tension and difficulty sleeping. If a person experiences these symptoms frequently or persistently, they should seek medical help to evaluate their health status and receive treatment if necessary.
Host: Thank you very much, Dr. Garcia, for your time and valuable information.
Dr. Juan Garcia: Thank you for having me. It is important to remember that the prevention of cardiovascular diseases begins with adopting healthy habits and managing stress and anxiety effectively.
Recent Comments