Constipation Linked To Hidden Heart Health Risks
A recent study has uncovered a significant link between chronic constipation and an increased risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including heart attacks and strokes. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals with high blood pressure, highlighting the need for comprehensive health management and lifestyle changes. Drawing on data from over 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank, researchers found that those with constipation had a much higher likelihood of experiencing MACE compared to individuals with regular bowel movements.
The study revealed striking statistics: individuals with constipation had a 115% greater risk of MACE, a 172% higher likelihood of heart failure, a 136% increased risk of ischemic stroke, and a 62% greater chance of acute coronary syndromes, which can result in severe heart damage or death. High blood pressure, when combined with constipation, further amplified these risks, with a nearly 1.7-fold increase in MACE likelihood and a 34% rise in the risk of subsequent cardiac events. Among the study population, over 157,000 participants had high blood pressure, and 8.6% of these individuals also experienced constipation. The elevated risks persisted even after considering the use of medications like calcium channel blockers, which are known to cause constipation.
Genetics also played a notable role, with 27% of the genetic factors linked to constipation overlapping with those associated with heart disease. This genetic connection opens avenues for developing targeted therapeutic interventions and personalized risk management strategies in line with precision medicine. Dr. Alexander Lee of the Long Island Jewish Medical Center emphasized that while constipation is an indirect risk factor for heart disease, its impacts—such as temporary spikes in blood pressure from straining—can have lasting effects on cardiovascular health.
Chronic constipation can disrupt the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to irregular heart rhythms and increased inflammation. Additionally, imbalances in gut bacteria caused by constipation may trigger inflammatory responses that contribute to arterial stiffness and plaque formation. Dr. Lee noted that straining during constipation episodes can temporarily raise blood pressure by 20 to 80 mmHg, and prolonged straining may have long-term cardiovascular consequences.
To mitigate these risks, experts recommend a proactive approach to health management. Maintaining a diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and attending routine medical check-ups can promote digestive and cardiovascular health. Dr. Lee underscored the importance of addressing these concerns early, stating that proactive health management is far more effective than reactive measures.
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