Optimism May Help Angina Patients

Angina is a type of temporary pain or discomfort in the chest caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. A recent study suggests that optimism may be beneficial to angina patients. The study of 2,400 patients with chronic angina looked at the connection between angina and positive emotional feelings. Participants had a procedure, revascularization, to unblock heart arteries. In the 2-year follow-up, patients who recorded themselves as more optimistic were 40% less likely to be hospitalized with angina compared to their more pessimistic peers. Helping patients feel more hopeful might positively affect future outcomes.