How Fear Impacts Your Health

Cardiovascular Damage

The long-term effect of being exposed to adrenaline is certain to incur cardiovascular damage over time, often in the form of tissue damage and constriction of blood vessels causing increased blood pressure. Individuals who suffer from heart disease are the most susceptible and can instantly suffer from a fatal arrhythmia, a condition where the heart beats out of rhythm and is unable to maintain circulation. Under heavy stress, individuals may develop broken heart syndrome (takotsubo syndrome) and drop dead from a sudden weakening of the heart and the decreased ability to pump blood. Cardiovascular damage can even occur in individuals who are not used to exercising and suddenly attempt to overexert themselves. Therefore, individuals who are more healthy, in general, are most able to handle the stress and long-term exposure to fear much better than those who are frail and unhealthy.