Does Your Personality Put You at Risk for Heart Disease?

Most people know that high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity and smoking are risk factors for heart disease. But did you know that a certain personality type can also put you at risk?

Someone who is impatient, aggressive, and very competitive, often called a Type A personality, has a higher risk of heart disease, says Ronesh Sinha, M.D., a Palo Alto Medical Foundation internal medicine doctor. But even if you aren’t Type A, other behaviors can also put you at risk. Here’s what you need to know.

Time Pressure

Intense time pressure and tight deadlines can negatively impact your health and contribute to heart disease risk. “Even if you are not the aggressive, competitive type, constantly being in a rush to meet the many demands of an overflowing schedule may still put you at risk,” Dr. Sinha says.

To reduce stress in your daily routine, step back and prioritize, Dr. Sinha recommends. Postpone some things that aren’t urgent so you can rush a little bit less.

Multitasking

How often do you surf the Internet while on a conference call? How about texting while driving, or chatting with your child while answering work emails? Multitasking has not been directly correlated with heart disease risk, Dr. Sinha says, but it can increase stress levels, which are connected to heart disease risk.

Multitasking while eating is another bad idea. Watching TV or surfing the Internet during meals can cause you to overeat and lead to weight gain and poor heart health.

Emotional Control

Many people, particularly men, tend to internalize emotions such as anger and frustration. Studies show that these people are at greater risk for chronic health conditions such as heart disease.

If you find it hard to open up and share your emotions with your spouse or partner, try to find another trusted confidant like a friend, coworker or therapist. “If you just can’t open up to anyone about a stressful situation,” Dr. Sinha says, “try to find some practice that allows you to let out steam, such as exercise. It can really help.”

Tips to Help You Lower Your Stress

Dr. Sinha recommends these ways to reduce stress and protect your heart.

• Learn to say no. If you are already feeling the effects of stress or constant time urgency, don’t accept every social invitation or work-related project. Schedule free time if that’s the only way you can get it.
• When you’re feeling overwhelmed, try slowing down. Walk slower, talk slower and take slow deep breaths.
• Learn a new relaxation practice, such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga or tai chi, and build it into your daily routine.