How Stress Can Affect Your Body
- Written by Melanie Smith
- November 26, 2021
Stress is an inevitable part of life. While a little stress from time to time is normal and can even be helpful, chronic stress can lead to numerous health problems.
Here, we’ll look at both the short and long term effects that stress can have on the body and go over some tips for reducing stress levels.
In this article, you will understand how stress can affect your body in many different ways. As well as the long and short-term effects of stress.
- Short-Term Effects of Stress on the Body
- Long Term Effects of Stress on the Body
- Tips For Reducing Your Stress Levels
- Are You Dealing With Chronic Stress?
Short-Term Effects of Stress on the Body
The body has a variety of biological responses to stress. Short term responses to stress include:
- A clenched jaw
- Rapid breathing
- Nervousness
- Sweaty hands
- A “fight or flight” response
Long Term Effects of Stress on the Body
When the body is in a constant state of stress, it can lead to several health problems. Along with the body’s biological reactions to stress, a variety of unhealthy habits (unhealthy eating, drinking, smoking) often go hand-in-hand with high-stress levels.
These biological reactions and unhealthy habits can contribute to several stress-related health issues. Here are some of the areas that may be negatively affected by chronic stress.
1. Sleep
Stay can make it difficult to quiet your brain and fall asleep. Although occasional insomnia can be common, getting a poor night of sleep three or more times a week can leave you feeling fatigued, irritable, and even more stressed. Insomnia can lead to additional health problems, making it crucial to get your stress levels under control and prioritise good quality sleep.
2. Mental Health
Chronic stress can increase your chance of dealing with mental health issues. This is believed to be a result of hormones that get released during stress that negatively impact serotonin levels. Over time, disrupted serotonin levels can lead to a variety of negative effects on mood.
3. Skin
Skin can be an excellent indicator of overall health and well-being. Chronic stress can cause chemical reactions in the skin that can increase its sensitivity and exacerbate conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also lead to rashes and hives.
To help combat the effects of stress on your skin, avoid harsh cleansers and opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products.
4. The Heart
Chronic stress can have negative effects on the health of the heart, making it essential to keep your stress levels in check.
5. The Immune System
The immune system works to protect the body against harmful viruses, bacteria, and other invaders. Research indicates that individuals dealing with chronic stress have fewer infection-fighting white blood cells. This increases susceptibility to colds and other illnesses. If you are sick, stress can make symptoms worse.
6. Metabolism
Are you trying to lose weight but not getting the results you hoped for? It may be time to check your stress levels. Studies have linked cortisol, the stress hormone, to cravings for fat and sugar.
Additionally, cortisol may trigger the body to hold onto fat, particularly belly fat, making it even tougher to drop the pounds.
Many individuals deal with stress by eating. If you reach for food to deal with stress, try to keep healthy snacks on your hands such as apple slices and peanut butter, freshly cut carrot sticks, air-popped popcorn, or fresh fruit.
7. Headaches
Under periods of stress, hormones may get released that can cause changes to the blood vessels in your body. This may lead to migraines or tension headaches.
Stress may also lower your pain tolerance, making it even more difficult to handle a headache.
8. The Digestive System
Have you ever felt sick to your stomach during a stressful time? Chronic stress can negatively impact the digestive system and cause symptoms such as:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Heartburn
- Irritable bowel syndrome
Tips For Reducing Your Stress Levels
Small doses of stress can be beneficial by helping you meet a deadline or avoid a dangerous situation. However, chronic stress can wear on you and lead to a variety of detrimental effects.
Try the following techniques to help healthily manage your stress levels:
- Exercise regularly (even a short 10 to 15-minute walk can be helpful)
- Eat a nutritious, balanced diet
- Talk to your doctor or a trusted healthcare provider to learn how to decrease your stress levels
- Take a high-quality supplement designed to help you naturally combat stress
- Get enough sleep
- Make time to enjoy hobbies
- Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Avoid using tobacco
- Spend time with friends and family
- Practice meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques
Are You Dealing With Chronic Stress?
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