Psychological Factors in CVD Flashcards
(20 cards)
How does chronic stress affect cardiovascular health?
It increases risk of hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart disease.
What is the physiological stress response mediated by?
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathetic nervous system.
What hormone is released during stress by the adrenal cortex?
Cortisol.
What is the role of cortisol in stress response?
Maintains blood glucose and modulates immune function.
What does sympathetic activation during stress do to heart rate and blood pressure?
Both heart rate and blood pressure increase.
How does stress contribute to atherosclerosis?
By promoting inflammation and endothelial damage.
What is heart rate variability (HRV)?
Variation in time between consecutive heartbeats.
What does low HRV indicate about autonomic balance?
Higher sympathetic dominance and reduced vagal tone.
How is low HRV associated with cardiovascular risk?
It predicts higher mortality and poor cardiovascular outcomes.
What happens to vagal (parasympathetic) tone under chronic stress?
It decreases, impairing heart rate regulation and resilience.
What is a Type A personality?
Competitive, impatient, aggressive behavior style.
How is Type A behavior linked to heart disease?
Higher risk of coronary heart disease.
What is a Type B personality?
Relaxed, non-competitive behavior style.
How does hostility impact cardiovascular disease risk?
Increases inflammatory response and cardiovascular risk.
What psychological factors can worsen recovery after a cardiac event?
Depression, anxiety, social isolation.
What is the relationship between depression and heart disease?
Depression increases both incidence and mortality in heart disease.
How can positive emotional states affect cardiovascular health?
They improve HRV, reduce inflammation, and lower heart disease risk.
What are protective psychological traits for heart health?
Optimism, emotional regulation, social support.
What interventions can improve heart health through psychological means?
Stress management training, psychotherapy, exercise.
What is biofeedback and how does it relate to cardiovascular control?
Using physiological feedback to consciously control heart rate and stress.
