How to manage anger and hypertension?

Question

Hello doctor,

My uncle is angry at all times. He gets angry even at small things. He is 42 years old and always likes to have food outside that is too spicy and hot. He was diagnosed with a blood pressure of 160/110 mmHg when he was in his 30s. What should be done to protect him from heart diseases like myocardial infarction or atherosclerosis? He is doing some kind of exercise but not regularly. He is not under any medication. Is the anger due to the high blood pressure? How can he reduce his blood pressure with diet or medication? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

High blood pressure (BP) is the result of multiple factors and is a cause of morbidity and mortality if left untreated. High blood pressure can cause mood swings, yet the relationship is not well studied. Anger can precipitate high blood pressure, too. Anger should be managed, and if your uncle is angry all the time, then it might be due to a personality trait or personality disorder. I would suggest you get an opinion from the psychiatric doctor so he can help. Also, if BP remains high all the time, he should start taking medicine for that as high BP, if left untreated, can cause cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, renovascular, as well as small vessel problems like retinal problems, which ultimately will affect vision. I would suggest that he start taking medicine along with dietary measures and lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake, using salt substitutes, and walking daily.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.