When was the last time you felt mad? Really mad? Did you simmer and stew or did you scream and shout? How you respond to anger can impact your heart health.

An episode of extreme anger can truly make your blood boil. When you are very angry, your blood pressure and heart rate rise. An angry outburst can even give you chest pain.

Chronic, suppressed anger increases your levels of a stress-related hormone called cortisol, which not only raises your blood pressure, but also weakens your immune system and increases inflammation in your body. If left untreated, long-term anger can also contribute to depression, as well as overeating, drinking and smoking, which are major risk factors for heart disease.

6 Tips to Tame Your Temper

Identify your triggers: Recognize what issues push your buttons so you can avoid them or deal with them in a more positive way.

Take a time out: Remove yourself from a situation that is about to make you blow.

Work it out: Exercise is calming and promotes a sense of well-being.

Before you react, take a deep breath: If that doesn’t work, take a few more.

Visualize yourself in a peaceful place: Listen to soothing music with headphones and imagine yourself in a favorite place or recall an image that gives you peace of mind.

Seek professional help: If you have a chronic anger problem, find a therapist or an anger management program