What is the Origin of Stress-Induced Cardiovascular Disease?

This clinical concept integrates cardiology, endocrinology, and behavioral medicine, acknowledging the significant role of chronic stress as a non-traditional, yet potent, cardiovascular risk factor. The understanding emerged from epidemiological studies linking psychosocial stress to adverse cardiac events. It is a refinement of the general understanding of psychosomatic illness.

What is the Mechanism of Stress-Induced Cardiovascular Disease?

Chronic stress triggers the persistent release of catecholamines and cortisol, which induce endothelial dysfunction, increase systemic blood pressure, and promote a pro-inflammatory, pro-thrombotic state. Elevated cortisol can also lead to insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, further accelerating atherosclerotic plaque formation. The sustained physiological hyperarousal places a chronic, detrimental workload on the myocardium and vasculature.

Stress-Induced Cardiovascular Disease ∞ Area

Stress-Induced Cardiovascular Disease

Meaning

Stress-Induced Cardiovascular Disease describes the spectrum of cardiac and vascular pathologies, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy, that are directly exacerbated or initiated by chronic psychological or physiological stress. The link is mediated by the sustained activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to detrimental changes in vascular biology. This condition underscores the mind-body connection in health.