American Heart Association study shows Veterans with depression and/or PTSD more likely to seek cardiac rehab
June 12, 2019
Dallas, TX – According to new research in Journal of the American Heart Association, the Open Access Journal of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or depression were more likely to use cardiac rehabilitation services after an episode of ischemic heart disease than those who didn’t have PTSD or depression.
A large study offers new evidence that mental health disorders may not be a barrier to cardiac rehabilitation. (American Heart Association)
American Stroke Association reports Psychiatric Illness may increase Stroke Risk
March 7, 2017
Houston, TX – Patients hospitalized or treated in the emergency room for depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychiatric disorders may have an increased risk for stroke, particularly in the 15 days following their psychiatric diagnosis, according to research presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2017.
Risk of stroke was greatest within 15 days of psychiatric diagnosis, declined with time, but persists for at least a year.. (American Heart Association)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder may affect Blood Vessel Health in Veterans
March 24, 2016
Dallas, TX – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may decrease the ability of blood vessels to dilate, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke in veterans, according to new research in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
In the largest study to date on the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on blood vessel health, researchers found that blood vessels of veterans with PTSD were unable to expand normally in response to stimulus – they were less reactive — compared to veterans without PTSD. Less reactive blood vessels are linked to heart disease and other serious conditions.
Heart illustration with artery close up. (American Heart Association)
