Watching nerve-wracking films can indeed affect your heart rate and blood pressure, as shown by a study conducted by University College London. The research revealed that emotionally charged films can cause disturbances in normal heart rhythms and a significant increase in blood pressure.
During the study, participants watched a clip from the film “Vertical Limit” while their blood pressure and breathing speed were monitored. The researchers found that these stressful scenes led to changes in heart rate and blood pressure among the participants.
Interestingly, when participants attempted to replicate the same breathing patterns they exhibited while watching the film, there were no significant changes observed in blood pressure and heartbeat. This suggests that changes in breathing alone may not be the trigger for alterations in heart rhythm.
This study provides valuable insights into the physiological effects of mental and emotional stress on the human heart. It highlights the potential risks for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those exposed to extremely stressful situations.
The researchers emphasized the importance of understanding how mental and emotional stress can impact heart health, particularly for vulnerable individuals. By identifying these effects, healthcare professionals can better support patients in managing stress-related cardiac issues.
Overall, this study sheds light on the powerful influence of emotional stimuli, such as film clips, on cardiovascular health and underscores the need for further research in this area.