Anger is a powerful emotion. It can lead to arguments, physical fights, physical abuse, assault, and self-harm. In addition, the constant flood of stress chemicals and associated metabolic changes that go with recurrent unmanaged anger can cause harm to many different systems of the body.
7 health problems that have been linked to getting angry
1. Anger hurts the heart
Those who get angry are four times more likely to develop myocardial infarction, the fatal cardiovascular disease.
2. Anger hurts the liver
According to Chinese medicine, the liver remains healthy if its energy moves without obstruction. Getting angry may hamper this movement and cause damage to the liver. It also can result in the worsening of Hepatitis C.
3. Anger hurts the lungs
Breathing becomes short when one gets angry. This is because the cells in the lungs continue to expand with only a brief pause, which can cause cell damage.
4. Brain cells become damaged when one gets angry
When one gets angry, blood flows to the brain and increases blood pressure, and the low level of oxygen in the blood produces toxins that can damage brain cells.
5. Anger causes wounds to heal slower
Those with a short temper suffer from reduced healing abilities and a longer recovery time after an injury.
6. Anger hurts the stomach and the intestines
Getting angry excites the sympathetic nervous system and lowers blood circulation in the stomach and the intestines, reducing one’s appetite. In severe conditions, an ulcer may develop.
7. Anger might cause sudden death
Research has disclosed that when one is in a rage, blood flow to the heart may be reduced, resulting in myocardial ischemia, an irregular heartbeat, cerebral ischemia, and even sudden death.
Still, there are several ways to avoid becoming angry:
- Change your mood
- Sit down or lay down and relax
- Close your eyes, take a deep breath and let go of negative thoughts
- Drink a cup of water to dilute free fatty acids
- Imagine a scene of relaxation
- Take a walk or do some exercises
