Quick-Tempered? You Might Be at Risk of a Ruptured Brain Blood Vessel
Did you know? Intense anger and stress can trigger a ruptured brain blood vessel, especially in hypertension patients. Learn the warning signs, prevention tips, and how to reduce stroke risks.
Many people have heard the phrase "so angry that a blood vessel in the brain bursts" and thought it was just a figure of speech. In reality, intense anger can trigger a hemorrhagic stroke (ruptured blood vessel), especially in individuals who already have high blood pressure.
Dr. Pracha shared a case of a 55-year-old male patient who was furiously scolding his subordinates before suddenly collapsing and losing consciousness. Upon waking up, he found himself unable to speak, and his right arm and leg were weak.
The CT scan results revealed a ruptured blood vessel in the left hemisphere of his brain.
Why Can Anger Cause a Blood Vessel in the Brain to Rupture?
When intense anger or stress occurs, the body releases a massive amount of the hormone adrenaline.
This hormone causes:
- The heart to beat faster
- Blood pressure to spike rapidly
- Blood vessels to constrict
If the blood vessels are already fragile, particularly in patients with hypertension, the vessel walls may fail to withstand the pressure and rupture.
High Blood Pressure and Already Taking Medication—Why Still at Risk?
Many people misunderstand that taking blood pressure medication every day keeps them entirely safe. However, the truth is that even with consistent medication, accumulated stress or severe anger can cause blood pressure to skyrocket beyond what the medication can control.
Additionally, stress causes the body to release the hormone cortisol, making blood pressure management even more difficult.
Warning Signs That Should Never Be Ignored
If any of the following symptoms occur, you should go to the hospital immediately:
- Slurred speech or inability to speak
- Facial drooping
- Weakness on one side of the face, arm, or leg
- Dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- A sudden, severe headache
- Loss of consciousness
Every minute counts, as rapid treatment reduces disability and increases the chances of recovery.
How to Reduce the Risk of a Ruptured Brain Blood Vessel
Dr. Pracha recommends that in addition to taking medication as prescribed, taking care of your mental health and controlling your emotions is equally important.
1. Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly
Especially for individuals who are easily irritated, stressed, or quick-tempered.
2. Find Ways to Manage Stress
Such as:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Getting adequate rest
- Engaging in relaxing activities
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise helps to:
- Improve blood vessel elasticity
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of blood vessel narrowing and rupturing
- Stimulate endorphin release, boosting mood and lowering stress
To Know Early Is to Prevent
In many cases, strokes do not just happen "out of nowhere."
Instead, they result from long-term accumulated risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, stress, and lifestyle habits.
Screening for risks before symptoms appear allows for preventive planning before paralysis or a brain blood vessel rupture occurs.
