Emotions and Stress in Persons with Coronary Disease

Abstract

A number of studies have determined that behavior, emotions and stress are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). There is evidence to support the hypothesis that the zone of the cerebral cortex linked to emotions is activated under stressful conditions and generates responses such as hypertension and cardiac arrest. Nevertheless, emotions that precede or generate stress and behavior that poses a risk of CAD are not addressed in health care, and their study has centered on anxiety or depression. The question is: What are the feelings and emotional states most often and predominantly associated with stress experienced by persons with CAD, and whether or not they differ according to certain socio-demographic characteristics? Methods: a correlational cross-sectional study of 65 women and men with CAD. A questionnaire on 38 feelings and emotional states was used to identify the characteristic emotions, according to frequency, predominance and force of appearance. Results: Twelve predominant characteristics were identified, 10 of which were identified and defined emotionally as hypersensitivity, impatience, infallibility, fear, excessive concern for others, emotional self-restraint, moral rigidity, the desire to be an example for others, over-protection, loneliness and isolation. These correlated significantly with feelings of blame, unhappiness, grief, extreme anxiety and desperation. Discussion: Excessive importance to reason and recognition from others, to the detriment of expressing ones feelings and emotional needs, appear to be indicative of persistent internal conflicts, a lack of self-care and emotional stress. It is suggested that emotional aspects be researched further in the interest of early prevention and rehabilitation.