Study Links Constipation to Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

By George Citroner

A recent study reveals the connection between constipation and a higher risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), such as heart attacks and strokes. This association was particularly strong in individuals who were also struggling with high blood pressure. This finding emphasizes the importance of proactive health management and lifestyle modifications, particularly given the prevalence of both conditions.

MACE and Constipation

The research team utilized data from more than 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Their analysis revealed that people with constipation faced a significantly heightened risk of experiencing MACE compared to those who maintained regular bowel habits.

Specifically, individuals with constipation exhibited a 115 percent increase in the odds of MACE, a 172 percent increase in the odds of heart failure, a 136 percent increase in the odds of ischemic stroke, and a 62 percent increase in the odds of acute coronary syndromes, which can result in heart damage and death.

Role of Hypertension

The researchers noted that hypertension was a factor that, when combined with constipation, significantly increased the risk of MACE.

The investigators demonstrated that the presence of constipation in patients with hypertension increases MACE risk by approximately 1.7 times and contributes to a 34 percent increase in the risk of subsequent MACE occurrence, thus signifying a significant interplay between these two health issues.

Risk Remained

Among the participants, more than 157,400 had high blood pressure, with 8.6 percent also diagnosed with constipation.

The increased risk of MACE remained even after accounting for the use of medications causing constipation, including calcium channel blockers used to help control blood pressure.

The investigators also found that genetics played a role in constipation and MACE. Up to 27 percent of the genetic factors influencing constipation were also tied to heart conditions. 

“The associations between constipation and heart disease can help scientists discover new therapeutic interventions and implement more effective management strategies based on individual risk assessment in line with precision medicine principles,” the researchers wrote.

‘Direct’ and ‘Indirect’ Factors

Dr. Alexander Lee, director of the cardiac catheterization lab at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, part of Northwell Health Cardiovascular Institute in New York, told The Epoch Times that it’s important to understand the difference between “direct” and “indirect” risk factors for heart disease.

Direct factors, such as high cholesterol and smoking, contribute directly to the formation of plaque in the arteries—a precursor to heart disease. Indirect factors, like constipation, do not directly cause plaque but may lead to conditions that promote cardiovascular risks.

Lee explained that chronic constipation can induce temporary spikes in blood pressure due to straining, which may have lasting impacts on heart health.

Chronic constipation can impair the function of the vagus nerve, a crucial component of the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for regulating heart rate and managing inflammation. Disturbances in vagus nerve activity can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and elevated stress responses, ultimately contributing to hypertension.

Additionally, imbalances in gut bacteria associated with constipation can lead to inflammatory responses that may eventually result in arterial stiffening and plaque development.

“Constipation and straining increases blood pressure possibly anywhere from 20 to 80 mmHg, albeit temporarily,” Lee said. “Chronic constipation may lead to persistent straining, which can lead to lasting effects on cardiovascular health.”

Prevention is Key

Experts recommend maintaining healthy dietary habits, including ample fiber intake, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity to promote digestive health. Routine medical check-ups can also help manage blood pressure and provide the opportunity to discuss any bowel health concerns with your health care provider.

Lee emphasizes the importance of a proactive approach to health management, stating, “It’s always better to manage your health proactively as opposed to reactively.”

Regular consultations with health care providers can help individuals develop tailored risk-reduction strategies to promote cardiovascular and digestive health.