Managing Stress and Your Health
Some common health problems that are often linked with stress do not necessarily have the research to back up the claim. Many people believe that ulcers are caused by stress. Research now indicates that while stress may increase the aggravation of ulcers, stomach viruses and genetic factors are more likely to be the actual cause of the ulcer.
Recent studies indicate however that some other health problems are caused, or heavily influenced, by cases of stress.
Stress can show up in quite obvious ways. Loss of appetite, digestion problems, muscle tension, headaches and high blood pressure are a few of the symptoms of stress. Chronic stress can cause serious, long-term health problems, so it is vital that people suffering from stress try to lower their stress levels.
The National Institutes of Health have recently undertaken studies that demonstrate that the immune system is affected, and sometimes compromised, by stress. It was noted that stress in some people creates a positive effect, while others experienced a negative effect.
The reason some people experience a positive response to stress is because stress is a sign of the ‘fight or flight’ reaction that all animals possess. When stress first begins, biochemicals are released that are meant to help heal the body. However, long periods of stress can be harmful.
The immune system can become compromised when large amounts of biochemicals are released. Once released, but with nothing to actually ‘attack’, the body then has trouble producing more of the biochemicals when there actually is something, such as a virus or infection in the body. Therefore, you are more likely to suffer from colds and other illnesses during times of prolonged stress.
Depression and general fatigue also often occur during stressful times. You begin to feel that there is no way out of the particular situation or problem. You therefore don’t work towards a solution, so of course, the situation or problem doesn’t change. Getting into this cycle becomes continuous, making it difficult to overcome the issue.
Chronic stress can also affect the circulatory system. When the biochemicals released during stress don’t get used up, either by fighting a virus or infection, or through a physical workout, they can cause other health problems.
Stress often causes high blood pressure, which in turn, can damage blood vessel walls. Micro-tears often result from high blood pressure, and when the body heals these tears, scar tissue can form. Once scar tissue forms, blood flow is reduced, as it has to fight past the scar tissue.
Heart attacks can occur in people who suffer from stress for a long period of time, or who are at genetic risk. The heart begins to find it difficult to supply the amount of blood and oxygen required once the blood vessels begin to narrow.
A link between stress and the worsening of rheumatoid arthritis has long been known, however, it is only in recent times that the connection between stress and the immune system has come to light. As the immune system heavily influences rheumatoid arthritis, it is now understood why this condition is affected by stress.
In order to ensure that you remain as healthy as possible, lower your stress levels using methods and techniques aimed at reducing stress. Otherwise, you might find that along with the stress, you also have to deal with a health complaint.
Introduction to Stress
What Causes Stress
The Effects of Stress
Stress - How NOT To Deal with Stress
Causes of Stress at Work
How to Deal with Stress
Stress Curing Techniques – How to Deal with Stress
Stress and Diet
Stress and Exercise – How to Relieve Stress with Exercise
Curing Stress at Work – How to Cure Stress at Work
Curing Stress – Pruning the Roots
Tackling Stress in the Modern World
Stress and Alcohol
Conquering Stress – How to Conquer Stress
Stress Guide and Info
How to Deal with Parenting Stress
Stress and Money Issues
Stress and Pets
Stress from Parents, Teenage Dilemmas
Managing Stress around the Holidays
Manage Stress Living Together with Your Partner
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