If you are consistently working 60 hours a week, it can feel stressful, but the impact goes beyond just emotional strain. Those long hours could also be putting your heart at risk.

A study published in June 2019 found that people who work more than 10 hours a day for at least 50 days a year have a 29% higher risk of having a stroke. The risk is even greater for those who have been working long hours for 10 or more years, with a 45% higher stroke risk compared to those working fewer hours.

What should you know about heart health?

The heart is the body’s powerhouse, pumping blood and oxygen to every part of the body, supplying the energy needed for all functions. How well the heart and blood vessels carry out this essential function is referred to as cardiovascular health.

When we talk about heart health, we usually mention risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise. These factors can increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, which may lead to issues like heart attacks, strokes, or other heart problems. Consult the best heart hospital in Coimbatore if you’re looking to analyze your heart health by the experts.

How does stress impact heart health?

Long work hours are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke for several reasons. Spending long hours at a desk often means sitting for extended periods, which can lead to a lack of physical activity, both of which are risk factors for stroke. Additionally, people working long hours may be more likely to cope with stress through unhealthy habits like binge drinking which adds another layer of risk.

There’s also evidence suggesting that people who work long hours are more likely to ignore heart problems symptoms, after all, who has the time to see a doctor? However, if left unchecked, heart disease can lead to serious conditions like heart attack or stroke. To make matters worse, long work hours can expose you to additional risks, including stress from high demands, exposure to noise, dust, toxic chemicals, and a lack of natural light.

What effect does a busy lifestyle have on heart health?

Busy professionals often deal with daily stress from tight deadlines, long hours, and sitting for extended periods. These pressures can result in neglecting key aspects of a healthy lifestyle, such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and enough sleep, all essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

Long-term stress, lack of exercise, unhealthy eating habits, and not getting enough sleep can raise blood pressure, increase cholesterol, and harm overall heart health.

Additionally, stress can cause the release of adrenaline and cortisol, known as stress hormones. When these hormones remain elevated for long periods, they can lead to inflammation, damage to blood vessels and the heart, and an increase in the risk of heart disease. Therefore, maintaining a balance between work demands and a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term heart health.

What are the tips to manage heart health while working in a corporate office?

Regular breaks:

Encourage employees to take regular breaks during the day to stretch, walk around, and reset their minds. These pauses can help lower stress levels and increase productivity.  

Desk exercises:

Encourage employees to try simple desk exercises like leg lifts, chair squats, and seated leg raises to keep their muscles active throughout the workday.

Stairs over elevators:

Instead of using the elevator, encourage yourself to use the stairs. Climbing stairs is a great way to add activity to the daily routine.

Healthy snacks:

Keep healthy snacks like nuts, fruits,  and yogurt including foods for heart health handy at your workplace to encourage better eating habits during busy workdays.

Hydration:

Encourage yourself to stay hydrated by setting up water stations and sending regular reminders to drink water.

Establish a sleep routine:

Encourage yourself to maintain a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekdays.

Limit caffeine intake:

Recommend cutting back on caffeine, particularly in the afternoon and evening, to help ensure a better night’s sleep.

How to achieve work-life balance?

Heart health depends on preserving a work-life balance. Setting clear boundaries, managing workloads effectively, and prioritizing self-care are key strategies. Employers and employees should work together to create a workplace culture that values well-being and supports a healthy balance between work and personal life.

Achieving a work-life balance is important for reducing stress, boosting mental well-being and avoiding burnout. A balanced lifestyle helps individuals find time for exercise, relaxation, and healthy meals all of which are essential for heart health.

Important Takeaway:

Long working hours can have a serious impact on heart health, making it a major concern today. Individuals need to be aware of the negative effects of long hours and take steps to prioritize their health. Employers and employees should collaborate to create a workplace culture that promotes well-being. Reach out to the best cardiologist in Coimbatore if you are looking for the best heart care.