How Can Stress Affect Your Body, Physically Dr. Joanne Frederick
Dr. Joanne Frederick Respiratory System Stress can cause shallow breathing, tightness in the chest, and worsen conditions like asthma or COPD. Hyperventilation may lead to dizziness and shortness of breath. Skin and Hair Cortisol can increase oil production in the skin, triggering acne or flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema. Stress may also lead to hair loss, including conditions like telogen effluvium and alopecia areata. Endocrine System Ongoing stress disrupts hormone production, affecting metabolism, sleep and reproductive health due to continuous cortisol release.
Sleep and Fatigue
Stress interferes with sleep, leading to insomnia or disrupted sleep cycles. Poor sleep can worsen stress, creating a harmful cycle that affects both mental and physical health. Breaking the Cycle: Managing Stress Effective stress management is essential for protecting your health. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and a healthy work-life balance can help reduce stress. Seeking professional support can also provide valuable tools for managing emotional stress.
By managing stress, you can protect your body and improve overall well-being.
American Psychological Association (APA). (2021). Stress effects on the body. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body. Cohen, S., Janicki-Deverts, D., & Miller, G. E. (2007). Psychological stress and disease. JAMA, 298(14), 1685-1687. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.298.14.1685.
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