Arterial hypertension is noted as one of the most common diseases in the world. Specialists are concerned that every tenth patient suffering from this disease cannot achieve full effectiveness even with the help of medications. Research conducted by scientists at Sechenov University revealed another serious cause of this problem. According to them, not only physiological factors, but also mental state - anxiety and depression - have a great influence on the increase in blood pressure.
According to scientists, about 36.8% of patients with hypertension suffer from various degrees of anxiety or depression. Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychosomatics, Director of the Institute of Clinical Medicine Beatrice Volel says about this: "Anxiety and depression lead to changes in the blood. In particular, blood thickening, increased risk of thrombus formation, increased heart rate, and increased blood glucose levels are observed.
Experts note that the influence of mental state is especially noticeable in the elderly. For example, the risk of hypertension is 3.6 times higher in men who walk with anxiety or depression, and 7 times higher in women. Even among middle-aged people, this indicator can double.
Interestingly, many patients experience constant anxiety due to fear of a heart attack or stroke. As a result, blood pressure increases and health deteriorates. According to Professor Wolel, this is a chain reaction-like process that can put the patient in an even more difficult situation.
According to the researchers' general conclusion, in the process of diagnosing and treating hypertension, it is necessary to thoroughly study the patient's mental state. Therefore, in the future, cardiologists and psychologists must work together and develop individual approaches.
Experts emphasize that the population can be protected from hypertension not only through medications, but also through a healthy lifestyle, stress reduction, proper rest, and support for mental health.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
