Sudden Stress, Exertion Can Trigger Heart Attack
 (HealthDayNews, 3/23/05)

Andrew Steptoe and Phillip Strike of University College, London, reviewed dozens of studies conducted between 1970 and 2004 and concluded that, while regular physical activity can benefit the heart, emotional stress and unusual physical exertion can trigger heart attacks in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. These findings highlight the importance of considering psychosocial issues when treating cardiac patients. For instance, a person who suffered a heart attack following vigorous activity may avoid all exertion and, thereby, forgo the health benefits they could derive from regular exercise. The emerging field of behavioral cardiology recognizes the importance of taking into account such psychological factors when dealing with cardiac patients.

(Psychosomatic Medicine, March 2005)