Heart attack patients usually have a fear of death. But the fear of death that can continue to give poor results in the healing process.
Researchers from London who analyzed 208 patients heart rate that high levels of fear of death can make heart conditions worse. This is because stress can raise levels of TNF-alpha chemical compounds.
Levels of TNF-alpha agents is higher in patients with heart attacks associated with inflammation in their blood higher. In the European Heart Journal study revealed high levels of chemicals that can aggravate health conditions.
"large inflammatory response known to damage the heart and increase the long-term risk of heart problems," said Andrew Steptoe of the British Heart Foundation, as quoted by BBC News, Friday (3/6/2011).
In addition to analyzing the emotional content of patients, the researchers also measured heart rate variability and cortisol stress hormones for 3 weeks after a heart attack.
Prof Steptoe who worked on this study reveals the fear of death is not just an emotional response, but associated with biological changes that occur during acute cardiac disorders.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mike Knapto as medical director of the British Heart Foundation said that the people who most suffered during heart attacks have levels of TNF-alpha is higher, so that the inflammation associated with a greater presence in the body.
"What needs to be done now is to help eliminate the fear of heart attack patients, so hopefully can give better results in the long term," said Dr. Knapto.
