Stress and Health

Some of health issues that have originally been attributed to stress aren't as related as they were once thought to be. An ulcer is an example health issue that was once blamed on stress. However today, viruses are the new culprits. Stress may contribute to increased acid production and discomfort, but it isn't what causes them.

That doesn't mean that stress is blame-free. Plenty of evidence points to stress as the main cause behind some relatively common health problems.

The most common problems induced by stress are headaches, muscle tension, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and interrupted digestion. Longer-term, and more serious issues are the result of chronic stress - a kind of stress being on-going and/or recurrent.

Several studies from the National Institutes of Health suggest that the immunity system is affected by stress. Other studies from other similar resources have shown that this stress can be positive or negative.

In its most absolute essence, stress is the "fight or flight" reaction to a perceived threat. Depending on that threat is interpreted, the stress could be positive. During the event, the body releases biochemicals that heal infections for example. It's when the body continues to react with a fight or flight response over a long period of time that it becomes negative.

During a moment of stress, the effectiveness of the immunity system decreases because the more stressful a situation, the more biochemicals are release. Severe problems occur when a body is depleted of these biochemicals but the stressful situation is still occurring. The body literally has nothing to defend itself with. So the immunity system is basically left bare and open to infection and a lowered resistance to disease.

Stress can also bring on depression, which is known to affect overall health as well. Coupled with fatigue, depression adds to the immunity system's vulnerability and it also weakens a person's mental as well. Stressful environments make it difficult for a person to shake a depressive state or to reenergize.

Studies have also revealed that the immunity system isn't the only thing affected. Chronic stress also compromises the circulatory system. Normally, the body's 'fight or flight' response releases stress hormones but when they're not used up by physical activity, they ring on physiological stress.

In a moment of physiological stress, high blood pressure increases and builds tension along blood vessel walls. As a natural reaction, blood flow is decreased and scar tissue forms over resulting micro-tears.

If not treated within a reasonable time, overstressed individuals or people who have a genetic propensity will suffer from a heart attack. With narrow blood vessels, the heart can not deliver sufficient blood and oxygen to key areas at times when they need it the most.

People who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis will find that their condition will worsen under periods of stress. The best way to protect against the damaging effects of stress on your health is to practice ways of reducing it. Meditating, eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep are vital components of a working stress-relieving program.

You didn't find what you were looking for? Try with Google!