Modern life, multiple occupations and the accumulation of responsibilities typical of everyday life, make both the physical and mental part of the human being, require an extra effort. Hence, stress is part of our lives, but sometimes the chronicity of its symptoms leads to truly disabling diseases.
In fact, faced with dangerous scenarios, it is necessary for this feeling to exist, since in this way we solve problems and react in a short time. However, prolonged alertness leads to increased blood pumping and hormones diverting oxygen to muscles to aid in flight; without needing it; which clearly weakens the body.
Stress is necessary up to a point
Actually, it is said that small episodes of stress can be positive for the body, because they stimulate the immune system in the short term and strengthen the character. However, psychologists and psychotherapists recommend maintaining an emotional balance to improve health, well-being and quality of life.
- Despite this, one of the main diseases associated with chronic stress is heart disease. Where the heart rate and the strength of the heart walls can be affected, as a consequence of repetitive abnormal blood pressure. Generating, in turn, headaches, fatigue, muscle stiffness and sleep disorders.1
- Likewise, when living in emergency mode, the liver releases more glucose, increasing the possibility of suffering from diabetes. At the same time, a systemic chain reaction can be generated due to the oxidative stress of the cells. Hence, chronic inflammatory processes and neurodegenerative affectations develop.2
- Likewise, it is recognized that the digestive system; especially the stomach; it is the reservoir of emotions. So much so, that constipation, diarrhea and inflammation can occur under constant stress conditions. Likewise, gastrointestinal disturbances occur; irritable bowel, gastritis, gastric ulcer or gastroesophageal reflux; in response to situations of concern.3
- In addition, cervical and muscle contractures are very common in alert people. Basically due to the excess of adrenaline and cortisol necessary to be able to escape. This is how chronic tension headaches can arise in this same way, which worsen over time, causing disability.3
In summary
We find that moderate stress is necessary because it allows us to act in risky situations. However, when it becomes chronic, it can affect the entire organism in a systemic way. Hence, discomfort in the back, neck, shoulders and head are one of the main characteristics of this condition.
At the same time, various indicators can be presented that show how much they affect the body. We then see hair loss, digestive problems and skin alterations, among its effects. Together, the heart suffers, emotions weaken, premature aging appears and cells rapidly degenerate, increasing the risk of developing cancer.
References:
1.Cesáreo Fernández Alonso. Stress in cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular health book. chap. 66. Internet consulted 20 Jul 2021. Available at: https://www.fbbva.es/microsites/salud_cardio/mult/fbbva_libroCorazon_cap66.pdf.
2.Beléndez Vázquez Marina, Lorente Armendáriz Iñaki, Maderuelo Labrador Mercedes. Emotional stress and quality of life in people with diabetes and their families. Gac sanit [Internet]. Aug 2015 [citado 2021 Jul 20]; 29 (4): 300-303. Available in:
http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0213-91112015000400011&lng=es.
- Mansilla Izquierdo Fernando. Consequences of role stress. Med. Safe. work [Internet]. Dec 2011 [citado 2021 Jul 20]; 57 (225): 361-370. Available in: http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0465-546X2011000400010&lng=es.