Marital disagreements may have tangible health effects, as shown by recent research from Northwestern University.
In a 20-year study, researchers invited married couples to a lab every five years to discuss their frequent arguments on camera.
The experts analyzed their interactions, observing facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice, and then assessed the couples’ health conditions.
Over the two decades, it was found that men who argued aggressively were more prone to health issues.
By the study’s end, 80 percent of men who frequently became angry during disputes experienced cardiovascular symptoms like chest pain, a racing heart, and shortness of breath. In contrast, only 53 percent of men who remained composed faced similar issues.
The reason? When emotions run high, blood pressure increases, and heart rate accelerates, according to the researchers.
Over time, this stress can damage the heart, elevating the risk of cardiovascular issues, explains study author Claudia Haase, Ph. D.
However, anger isn’t the sole health risk factor.
Men who emotionally withdrew during arguments-avoiding eye contact and ignoring their partners-were more likely to suffer from musculoskeletal issues such as muscle tension and back pain. Nearly half of these individuals developed muscle-related problems, compared to just 23 percent of those who remained emotionally engaged.
Researchers attribute this to the physical tension in the neck and shoulders that arises when one stonewalls a partner, which increases the risk of pain over time, Haase adds.
To alter these detrimental arguing patterns, Haase suggests taking a walk when you sense your temper rising.
Removing yourself from the argument can break the pattern of yelling or shutting down, and walking provides an opportunity to cool off. Returning to the discussion calmly allows for constructive communication-at a reasonable volume and without tense muscles.