Scientists Elucidate 8 Consequences Of Excessive Stress On Your Body

Scientists Elucidate 8 Consequences Of Excessive Stress On Your Body
Stress occurs when someone endures excessive emotional or mental strain. This strain leads to distress—a detrimental psychological condition that can harm both the mind and body. It's not an exaggeration to state that stress can be lethal. 

The widespread prevalence of stress in everyday life poses a significant threat to both individual and public health. Here are some concerning statistics:

  • 77% of individuals frequently experience physical symptoms due to stress.
  • 73% of individuals frequently suffer from psychological symptoms due to stress.
  • 33% of people report living with extreme stress.
  • 48% of people admit to lying awake at night because of stress.
  • 48% of individuals indicate that stress negatively affects their personal and professional lives.

The human body is composed of a total of 78 organs, which are categorized into 13 major organ systems. Among these, five are deemed vital: the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs. We highlight this because stress adversely impacts all organs, especially the vital ones.

In this article, we explore the effects of stress on 10 major organ systems. Additionally, we will offer some effective methods for alleviating stress in the body and mind, including the organs.

WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR BODY WHEN YOU'RE OVERSTRESSED

1. CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

The cardiovascular system, comprising the heart and blood vessels, is highly susceptible to the detrimental effects of chronic high stress. Cardiovascular disease is responsible for roughly 610,000 deaths annually in the United States, equating to one in every four deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies it as the primary cause of mortality for both genders.

Ongoing studies increasingly associate cardiovascular disease with stress. Stress, especially when coupled with other hazardous behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, significantly heightens the risk of this disease.

2. NERVOUS SYSTEM

The central components of the nervous system are the brain and spinal cord. The autonomic nervous system (ANS), which plays a pivotal role in the physical response to stress, is divided into the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

Stress originates, persists, and concludes within the brain. It triggers the "fight or flight" response, releasing hormones that cause various physiological changes, including an accelerated heartbeat, increased respiration, and dilation of blood vessels in the arms, among other effects.

In essence, chronic stress is detrimental to brain health.

3. RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

The respiratory system is composed of the bronchi, larynx, lungs, nose, pharynx, and trachea. The "fight or flight" response induced by the brain can lead to intensified breathing, potentially causing hyperventilation.

Panic attacks, characterized by sudden and intense anxiety, are frequently observed in individuals suffering from chronic stress.

4. MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

The musculoskeletal system consists of our bones, joints, and muscles. Common knowledge tells us that stress can cause our bodies to become tense. This tension usually dissipates after an acute stress response. However, if stress becomes chronic, it can keep the muscles in a state of constant tension, leading to chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders.

5. REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The reproductive system includes the gonads, accessory organs (such as the prostate and uterus), genitalia, mammary glands, and genital ducts in males.

Both men and women's reproductive systems are regulated by the nervous system. In men, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) generates testosterone and triggers the sympathetic nervous system to induce arousal. In women, stress can negatively impact a variety of functions including menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and sexual desire.

During stressful periods, the brain emits cortisol which, over time, can interfere with the normal functioning of reproductive anatomical structures.

6. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

The endocrine system comprises the adrenals, hypothalamus, pancreas, parathyroid, pineal gland, pituitary gland, ovaries, testes, and thymus.

Once again, the brain triggers the release of stress hormones, cortisol and epinephrine, through the hypothalamus. The adrenals, situated near the kidneys, produce cortisol and epinephrine, which increases the body's stress response levels.

During this process, the liver generates glucose, aiding in fight or flight responses. However, this surplus blood sugar can lead to Type 2 diabetes in susceptible groups, including the obese and certain ethnicities, such as Native Americans.

Managing stress is crucial for maintaining normal blood sugar levels and potentially preventing diabetes in some cases.

7. INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM

The integumentary system, consisting of hair, nails, and skin, plays a vital role in maintaining the body's homeostasis, including protection, temperature regulation, sensory reception, biochemical synthesis, and nutrient absorption.

For the integumentary system to operate effectively, other internal systems must be well-maintained. Stress can disrupt this system's systematic functioning, leading to reduced blood flow to the skin, loss of skin elasticity, destabilization of glandular functions, and impaired tissue repair.

8. DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

The digestive system comprises primary organs such as the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and accessory organs including the rectum, appendix, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Excessive consumption of food, alcohol, and nicotine may lead to acid reflux or heartburn, common issues for those experiencing chronic stress. Stress can also heighten stomach sensitivity, exacerbating the aforementioned symptoms.

Chronic stress might cause severe stomach pain, ulcers, and conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

WAYS TO COMBAT STRESS!

Proper stress management is crucial for preventing and addressing any actual or potential medical issues. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) suggests several effective stress reduction techniques.

– Lifestyle changes: Stress reduction is closely linked to positive lifestyle adjustments. Enhancing overall health and stress management often involves regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco intake.

– Relaxation methods: UMMC, an academic institution, emphasizes relaxation techniques and alternative therapies. Recommendations include acupuncture, deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, massage therapy, and biofeedback.

- Herbal remedies encompass aromatherapy, the consumption of valerian—an herb known for its sedative properties, and the use of kava—a root effective in alleviating anxiety and stress.

(Note: Not everyone tolerates herbal therapies well. Depending on one's medical history, herbs, supplements, and other homeopathic treatments can lead to severe side effects. Therefore, whether considering holistic or conventional treatments, consulting a physician or undergoing a physical examination is recommended.)

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Source: www.powerofpositivity.com

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