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Aug 1, 2023 · The long-term activation of the stress response system and too much exposure to cortisol and other stress hormones can disrupt almost all the body's processes. This puts you at higher risk of many health problems, including: Anxiety. Depression.
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- Ann Pietrangelo
- Central nervous and endocrine systems. Your central nervous system (CNS) is in charge of your “fight or flight” response. In your brain, the hypothalamus gets the ball rolling, telling your adrenal glands to release the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.
- Respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Stress hormones affect your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. During the stress response, you breathe faster in an effort to quickly distribute oxygen-rich blood to your body.
- Digestive system. Under stress, your liver produces extra blood sugar (glucose) to give you a boost of energy. If you’re under chronic stress, your body may not be able to keep up with this extra glucose surge.
- Muscular system. Your muscles tense up to protect themselves from injury when you’re stressed. They tend to release again once you relax, but if you’re constantly under stress, your muscles may not get the chance to relax.
Jan 1, 2013 · The long-term activation of the stress response system and the overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones that come with it can disrupt almost all of your body's processes. This can put you at increased risk for a variety of physical and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, digestive issues, headaches, muscle tension ...
Apr 3, 2024 · Over time, repeated activation of the stress response takes a toll on the body. Research suggests that chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure, promotes the formation of artery-clogging deposits, and causes brain changes that may contribute to anxiety, depression, and addiction.
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Feb 8, 2024 · When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol and other stress hormones. If this bodily response to stress goes on for a long period of time, it can put you at risk for certain health conditions, such as: digestive problems and weight gain. anxiety and depression.
Nov 1, 2018 · Chronic stress, or a constant stress experienced over a prolonged period of time, can contribute to long-term problems for heart and blood vessels. The consistent and ongoing increase in heart rate, and the elevated levels of stress hormones and of blood pressure, can take a toll on the body.
Jun 15, 2022 · When stress is temporary, the stress response is usually beneficial, as it helps you react to the situation and build resilience. However, ongoing or long-lasting (chronic) stress can cause health concerns, like high blood pressure, so preventing or managing chronic stress is essential.
