Abuja:A military cardiologist, Maj.-Gen. Life Ajemba, has issued a warning regarding the potential cardiovascular effects of intense combat situations on soldiers, emphasizing the prolonged stress that can impact heart health.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ajemba discussed the effects of operational stress in an interview, pointing out that soldiers exposed to life-threatening situations might experience a ‘fight or flight’ response. This response involves a rise in heart rate, muscle tension, and the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, preparing the body to either confront danger or flee from it.
Some personnel may continue to experience increased heart rates and blood pressure even after the immediate danger has subsided. Ajemba noted that repeated exposure to traumatic incidents, such as witnessing the death or severe injury of colleagues, could lead to operational stress or post-traumatic stress disorder. The psychological impact of these experiences can be challenging to detect since affected personnel might appear normal to others.
Ajemba called for greater recognition of mental health challenges among military personnel and urged that symptoms should not be dismissed as malingering or weakness. He also recommended tactical breathing as a technique to provide immediate support during acute anxiety episodes. This method involves inhaling, holding the breath, exhaling, and holding again for four seconds each, helping to calm the sympathetic nervous system.
For those experiencing severe anxiety or psychological distress, Ajemba suggested evacuation to appropriate medical facilities for assessment and treatment. Military hospitals are increasingly providing mental health services, including screening personnel before deployment and assessing them for psychological issues after operations.
Routine health monitoring was also advocated to detect early changes in a soldier’s cardiovascular condition. Ajemba highlighted the potential of wearable health devices to track heart rate, heart-rate variability, and sleep disturbances, complementing conventional medical screening by identifying unusual changes needing further assessment.
Ajemba stressed the importance of balancing operational readiness with attention to the long-term physical and psychological well-being of personnel, noting that protecting soldiers’ health is crucial for maintaining an effective and resilient fighting force.