JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It's already known that work stress can increase your risk for heart disease. Now, new research links work stress to your risk of stroke.
Women were found to be at greatest risk.
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Researchers compiled data from six studies and evaluated the association of job stress with future stroke risk.
They found that jobs with high psychological demand but low control, like being a waitress or a nursing aid, were associated with a 22 percent increased risk of having the type of stroke that's caused by a blood clot.
"This adds to the evidence that stress is a risk factor for stroke and specifically in this study, stress related to your job," says Irene Katzan, MD, a stroke specialist at Cleveland Clinic.
Experts believe it's possible that stress may cause inflammation in the body which can then lead to stroke or heart attack.
The study, published in the journal Neurology, adds to the evidence that stress in general is harmful to your health and should be taken very seriously.
"If your job is stressful, be mindful of your blood pressure, eat healthy, and get exercise," says Dr. Katzan.
Here are some simple ways you can de-stress on the job:
- Breathe deeply to supply much-needed oxygen to the brain
- Get up and move during the day
- Liven up your workspace with plants and soft colors
Focus on one thing at a time, then recognize your accomplishments