Anger is a powerful emotion of irritation, dissatisfaction, or hostility. The cause of anger can be fair or unfair. The intensity of anger can vary, ranging from mild to intense. This means that it can be expressed through yelling, using offensive words, cursing, or, in extreme cases, resorting to violence and causing harm to oneself or objects.

Whatever the reason for an individual to be angry at another, the results are unpleasant for both. It does affect the physical and mental health of both.

If the person being targeted in anger is an equal, they may respond, leading to an unpleasant scene. If the situation escalates, there may be physical damage inflicted on either the individual or the surrounding objects.

If the person affected is a subordinate in terms of relationship or position, they may choose to remain silent for now. However, they will carry the emotional pain and insult within them. Firstly, they will speak negatively about the person who lost their temper and seek revenge at the earliest chance.

People tend to avoid individuals who have a quick temper, leading them to become lonely and depressed. In a domestic setting, the harmony and serenity of a household are disrupted when family members become angry with one another.

The angry individual gains nothing, but they lose much. Peace of mind is disrupted, leading to anxiety. The heightened surge of adrenaline in the body due to anger results in an elevated pulse, increased blood pressure, excessive sweating, and breathlessness.

Individuals sometimes experience heart attacks or strokes shortly after becoming angry. The long-term consequences of anger include anxiety, mental stress, and associated conditions such as peptic ulcers, high blood pressure, and diabetes, among others.

Release of stress hormones in the body, caused by anger, can also harm brain cells, leading to memory loss, dementia, and other issues. The health risks associated with anger depend on the frequency and intensity of anger episodes, as well as the overall health of the individual. These problems can affect not only the person experiencing anger, but also those around them.

Ego is a major catalyst for anger. When a person perceives themselves as superior to others, they become irritated when someone challenges them. Some individuals justify their anger as a means of correcting others. In some cases, anger serves as a tool to seek attention, displaying one’s perceived importance. Intoxication, especially from alcohol, also contributes to losing one’s cool.

A strong-minded individual remains calm in the face of provocation, as anger indicates a lack of mental strength. Anger not only leads to the loss of respect, loved ones, and friends, but also poses risks to one's health. Furthermore, it negatively impacts mental peace and the well-being of the person being targeted.

Therefore, it is advisable to avoid anger. One suggestion is to let go of ego. No one is flawless. Yelling and venting frustration over someone's mistake is immature. Prior to becoming angry about an issue, consider calmly how significant it truly is.

Nothing is more important in life than life itself and any matter is important only if it endangers life. Mentally count up to 10 and take slow breaths before becoming angry. By the time you reach 10, your temper will also cool down a little.

If you dislike something someone has done, try to find something positive and cheerful to reduce anger. Instead of reprimanding someone for their mistakes, it would be better to help them correct those mistakes by offering positive suggestions. This approach will make them more receptive to your suggestions.

If you come across someone who is stubborn, it would be wise to communicate with them directly or, if possible, report the situation to a senior authority instead of getting angry. Whether it is at home or work, an individual who frequently gets angry should receive guidance from well-wishers or be referred for professional counseling.

Dr Rachna Pande is a specialist in internal medicine.