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Millions of people all over the world watched in horror as a player bit his opponent during a FIFA World Cup 2014 match. The question uppermost in people’s minds was why. Why bite?
Biting is a primitive and aggressive expression of anger, frustration or fear.
Anger occurs in an area of the brain called the amygdala. In a quarter of a second it releases the chemicals arginine-vasopressin, dopamine, noradrenalin, and corticotropin-releasing hormone and lowers serotonin levels. These chemicals make our bodies ready for a “fight or flight” reaction. The heart rate and blood pressure go up, pupils dilate and sweating occurs. Almost immediately, the blood supply to the frontal lobe of the brain increases. It reacts, releasing other chemicals like serotonin. As its levels rise, reason sets in and higher functions take over. Angry reactions are suppressed.
When intense anger takes over, you can either leave the scene (probably an appropriate and safe response), or respond with physical or verbal aggression. If serotonin levels are low, unreasonable anger and aggression take over.
During sports, especially contact sports such as football and wrestling, the body is already fine- tuned to win, and, if necessary, be aggressive towards the opponent. This reaction often makes the difference between winning and losing. For the rest of us, lashing out verbally or physically is not a viable option. “Anger management” is essential to make us productive, functioning members of society.
People can “feel the heat” as anger builds up in the body. Three responses are possible at this point. The emotion can be vented out, suppressed or attempts can be made to calm down. Expressing anger to a superior or an authority figure may not be the wisest path.
Suppression of anger, especially if the aggravation is continuous and long term, can have negative effects. The blood pressure can go up, it can precipitate a stroke or heart attack and it can result in overeating and obesity with its attendant problems or depression.
Calming techniques have to be learnt, as they do not come naturally. As soon as you feel your heart pounding in anger, count mentally to 10 before retorting verbally or physically. This gives time for the frontal lobe to counter the amygdala. At the same time take a few deep breaths. Sometimes a word like peace or shanti repeated mentally several times can help with control. Yoga and meditation are time-tested ancient techniques.
Logic defeats anger. Considering and analysing occurrences can often defuse anger. Listening to the other person, thinking things through, walking in the other man’s shoes, are all practical ways to tackle the problem of anger.
Regular aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging, running, cycling or swimming for 40 minutes or more a day has profound effects on physical and psychological make up. Chemicals are released from the muscles and these elevate serotonin levels. Anger does occur in people who exercise regularly, but the chemicals released by the body tend to put a “brake” on violent, irrational anger.
Toddlers sometimes throw tantrums. During these they may bite. The problem is compounded by frustration at the inability to make themselves understood. As the brain matures, the higher centres (frontal lobes) encourage social norms. If there is dysfunction in the frontal or temporal lobes of the brain, uncontrolled, aggressive and biting behaviour may persist into adult life. This can be picked up with EEG or MRI scans.
Human bites are dangerous even if accidental or self-inflicted, if there is a break in the skin. The mouth contains a large number of viruses and bacteria that can cause infection. The wound should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water and a topical antibiotic cream applied. Booster injections of tetanus toxoid and hepatitis B should be taken if they are due. The HIV virus can be transmitted through a human bite. Appropriate blood tests may be required.
Dr Gita Mathai is a paediatrician with a family practice at Vellore. Questions on health issues may be emailed to her at yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1140714/jsp/knowhow/story_18611110.jsp#.U8YwJJSSya8
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