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What Stress Really Does to Your Heart, According to a Cardiologist

December 26, 2025

Deadlines, bills, family drama – stress is a part of life. But while your mind may eventually move on, your heart feels the impact.

“Stress doesn’t just stay in your head,” says Abhishek Jaiswal, MD, a cardiologist at Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute. “It affects your whole body, especially your heart.”

Here are five ways stress can take a toll on your heart.

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1. It raises your blood pressure

Stress releases hormones that cause your blood pressure to rise. If this happens often, it can strain your heart and arteries.

“Even if your blood pressure goes back down afterward, repeated spikes over time can eventually strain your arteries and heart,” Dr. Jaiswal says.

So while the occasional rush isn’t harmful, chronic stress can keep your heart working overtime.

2. It increases inflammation

Stress doesn’t just make you feel tense – it also causes inflammation. This can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease.

“Inflammation is one of the key drivers of plaque buildup in arteries, which can eventually lead to blockages,” says Dr. Jaiswal.

Think of it as adding fuel to the fire: more inflammation means higher risk for long-term heart problems.

3. It affects your sleep

Have you ever found yourself tossing and turning all night after a stressful day?

When you’re stressed, it’s harder to sleep well. And poor sleep raises your blood pressure and puts extra strain on your heart.

“When you’re not sleeping, your heart doesn’t get the rest it needs,” says Dr. Jaiswal. “Poor sleep is linked to higher blood pressure, irregular rhythms and a greater risk of heart disease.”

Stress may start in your head, but it can keep your whole body — heart included — from recharging properly.

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4. It leads to unhealthy habits

You might have eaten healthy all week – but after a stressful day, that bag of chips or second glass of wine can look more appealing.

“Stress often leads to comfort behaviors like overeating, smoking or drinking, all of which are bad for your heart,” Dr. Jaiswal notes.

Over time, those small choices can add up to big risks.

5. It triggers irregular heartbeats

That fluttering in your chest during a high-stress moment? It’s not just your imagination.

“Stress hormones can make your heart race or skip beats. If this happens often, tell your doctor,” Dr. Jaiswal says.

Managing stress isn’t just about feeling calmer — it’s a key part of protecting your heart for the long haul.

Stress happens — how you handle it matters

You can’t avoid stress completely – but you can control how you handle it.

“Exercise, deep breathing and taking breaks can help you relax and protect your heart,” says Dr. Jaiswal.

Your mind will feel calmer – and your heart will stay healthier.