Anger can kill you

Here's even more reason to count to 10 before losing your temper: Anger and other strong emotions can trigger potentially deadly heart rhythms in people who are particularly vulnerable, according to new research.

In a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, US researchers found that anger-induced electrical changes in the heart can lead to arrhythmias in people with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs).

While previous research has shown an increase in sudden cardiac death during times of stress (such as earthquake and war), this study provides the first evidence that changes brought on by anger and other strong emotions can predict arrhythmias and may link mental stress to sudden cardiac arrest -- which in the United States alone, is responsible for over 400,000 deaths each year.

"It's an important study because we are beginning to understand how anger and other types of mental stress can trigger potentially lethal ventricular arrhythmias, especially among patients with structural heart abnormalities," says study leader Rachel Lampert, M.D. and associate professor at Yale University School of Medicine.

"More research is needed, but these data suggest that therapies focused on helping patients deal with anger and other negative emotions may help reduce arrhythmias and, therefore, sudden cardiac death in certain patients." ( Read more about the study.)

Anger, when expressed appropriately, can actually have its benefits. Experts say it can help to protect you from dangerous situations, energize you to resolve problems and on a larger scale, even lead to social or cultural reforms.

But if temper flare-ups are negatively affecting your relationships -– and quite possibly your health -– it may be time to look at the way you express your anger.

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By: Cynthia Ross Cravit 50Plus.com