How Stress Affects Health

Chronic stress, or stress that lingers for a long period of time, can lead to more adverse health conditions. If stress is not managed properly, in the long run, it can affect various systems within your body. Here are some ways that stress affects a person’s health. 

Cardiovascular System

• High blood pressure
• Breathing problems
• Increased risk for stroke
• Increased risk for heart attack

Immune System

• Weakened immune system
• Vulnerable to colds, flu, and infections
• Prolonged healing time

Digestive System

• increased risk of developing diabetes
• heartburn, acid reflux
• increased risk for ulcers
• irritable bowel syndrome – diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating
• nausea and vomiting

Reproductive System

• Heavier, irregular, more painful periods
• Less sexual desire
• Lower testosterone levels

When thinking about how stress affects a person’s overall wellness, one must look beyond just physical ailments. Health is also comprised of emotional, mental, and behavioral stability. Stress can affect one, some, or all these factors in one’s health. It is important to manage stress so that your overall health is not compromised.