Anger is a physical and emotional phenomenon. During episodes of anger, people frequently clench their fists, yell, and their faces may become flushed with blood. These physical manifestations of anger affect systems throughout the body. Stress chemicals such as adrenaline are released, and the heart rate and blood pressure are raised. At the same time, the arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart narrow, and the blood is “stickier,” raising the risk of blood clots.

Acute episodes of anger have been linked to heart attack and to abnormal heart rhythms called arrhythmias. Recent studies have also shown that anger can contribute to risk factors for heart disease (e.g., higher homocysteine and cholesterol levels) and even trigger sudden cardiac death.

Not all people experience anger in the same way. Some personality types seem prone to anger, whereas others are more relaxed and calm. Some people bottle their anger up, refusing to express it, though still others freely and loudly vent their anger given the slightest provocation.

Expressing anger in a healthy way may contribute to an overall healthy lifestyle. Chronic anger or hostility has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse and poor diet. Learning anger management techniques could help reduce the stress on your cardiovascular system and ultimately save your life.