Anger can negatively affect health

Scientists have discovered that feelings of rage can weaken the function of blood vessels and restrict blood flow in a way that can put a person's health in danger.

Researchers at Columbia University in New York recruited 280 participants and asked a quarter to recall a memory that made them feel angry.

Blood pressure and blood vessel dilation measurements were taken after three minutes and then at 40, 70 and 100 minutes after the task was completed, while blood samples were taken to assess the health of cells.

Analysis revealed that participants were at risk for 40 minutes after feeling angry but the danger subsided after that point.

The experts said: "Tasks that recalled past events causing anger led to an impairment in blood vessel dilation, from zero to 40 minutes after the task. The impairment was no longer present after the 40-minute mark."

For feedback: contact the Editorial Department at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com.