What is stress ? Stress is a natural human response to challenges and threats in our lives . It usually happens when we are in a situation that we don ' t feel we can manage or control . Medically , stress causes chemical changes in the body that can raise your blood pressure , heart rate and blood sugar levels .
So , what happens to your body ? Your Sympathetic Nervous System ( SNS ) is a network of nerves that helps your body activate its ‘ fight-or-flight ’ response . This system ' s activity increases when you ' re stressed , in danger or physically active . The body shifts its energy resources toward fighting off a perceived life threat or fleeing from an enemy . The SNS signals the adrenal glands to release hormones called adrenalin ( epinephrine ) and cortisol .
• The fight response is your body ' s way of facing any perceived threat aggressively
• Flight means your body urges you to run from danger
• Freeze is your body ' s inability to move or act against a threat
Research suggests that stress also can bring on or worsen certain symptoms or diseases .
What are the most common physical symptoms in reaction to stress ? The cortisol and adrenaline hormones released during a stressful situation , can cause several changes in your body , including : 1 . Increased heart rate and blood pressure : The increased level of hormones can cause your heart to beat faster and your blood vessels to constrict , leading to higher blood pressure . 2 . Digestive problems : Stress can affect your digestive system and cause symptoms such as stomach pain , bloating , constipation or diarrhoea . 3 . Weakened immune system : Chronic stress can suppress your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections and illnesses . 4 . Muscle tension and pain : Stress can cause muscle tension and pain , especially in your neck , shoulders and back . 5 . Headaches : Stress can trigger tension headaches , migraines as well as muscular spasms in the neck and shoulders . 6 . Sleep problems : Stress can interfere with your sleep , causing difficulty in falling asleep , staying asleep or waking up too early . 7 . Skin problems : Stress can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema , psoriasis or acne .
8 . Endocrine disorders caused by stress include hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism , ghrelin and leptin , the hormones that regulate appetite , increasing hunger , melatonin , resulting in restlessness and insomnia , insulin , contributing to Type 2 diabetes . 9 . Mental health issues : Chronic stress can also contribute to the development of mental health disorders such as anxiety , depression and burn-out .
How do you monitor your stress levels ? To monitor your stress , first identify your stress triggers . What makes you feel angry , tense , worried or irritable ? Do you often get headaches or an upset stomach with no medical cause ? Is it hard to focus or do you have trouble sleeping at night ?
Overall , chronic stress can contribute to the development or worsening of chronic conditions such as diabetes , obesity , depression and anxiety . Stress can be a killer . Which is why it ' s essential to manage your stress . Do this through healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise , meditation , deep breathing or seeking professional help , if necessary .
And remember , your GP should be your first port of call for all your healthcare needs . We believe there needs to be coordination of care and encourage you to see your GP , who can refer you to a specialist or auxiliary provider as and if the need arises .
Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 3 | 2023
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