Stress is an automatic response of the body to an
inappropriate level of pressure. It is a state of mental or emotional strain
resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. Everyone experiences stress
in some form or the other, but it is important to handle stress effectively.
The effects of stress are numerous depending upon the severity. It is
accompanied by an array of physical reactions which may be characteristic of
other physical or mental disorders. Medical records suggest 75% to 90% of all
visits to the doctor are associated with stress-related ailments.
Stress affects the entire body & chronic stress may even
take the form of ailments.
Nervous
System:
When stressed, physically or psychologically, the
sympathetic nervous system signals the adrenal glands to secrete more hormones.
The release of adrenaline & cortisol increase heart beats, raise blood
pressure, change digestive processes & boost glucose levels in blood
stream.
Musculoskeletal
System:
During stress muscles tense up causing headaches,
migraines, backaches & various musculoskeletal problems.
Pulmonary
System:
Stress can cause rapid breathing or hyperventilation
which can lead to panic attacks. But for people suffering from asthma or
emphysema, the need to breathe easier can be difficult.
Cardiovascular System:
Acute stress can cause increase in heart rate & also
bring about stronger contractions of heart muscles. Repeated acute stress &
chronic stress may contribute to inflammation in the circulatory system & coronary
arteries, which in turn may cause heart attacks.
Endocrine
System:
When the body is in stress, the hypothalamus signals the
autonomic nervous system & the pituitary gland to secrete cortisol &
epinephrine, which are also called “stress hormones”. In reaction to these
hormones, the liver produces more glucose & releases it in the blood
stream.
Gastrointestinal System:
Stress may lead to overeating or much less than one
usually does. One may also experience heartburn, or acid re-flux. One may even
experience nausea or pain in the stomach. Stress can affect digestion & may
either cause constipation or diarrhea.
Male
Reproductive System:
Stress can affect the normal functioning of the male
reproductive system. Stress causes release of hormone cortisol. Excess amounts
of cortisol can affect the normal biochemical functioning of the male
reproductive system. Sperm production, maturation, etc. can eventually be
affected.
Concerning
Women:
Stress can affect menstruation among adolescent girls
& women in several ways. It may worsen premenstrual symptoms like cramping,
fluid retention & bloating, mood swings etc. It may also cause absent or
irregular menstrual cycles or more painful periods. Stress may cause increased
number of hot flashes in premenopausal women, fatigue &
