The Effects of Stress on the Body

Stress affects all the body’s systems, including the musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous and reproductive systems.

How stress affects the body

The human body is well equipped to cope with stress in small doses. But when stress becomes long-lasting or chronic, it can have serious effects on physical and mental health.

The musculoskeletal system

When the body is under stress, the muscles contract. Muscle tension is almost a reflex — the body’s natural way of protecting itself from pain and injury.

In the case of acute stress, the muscles contract suddenly, then relax once the stressful situation has passed. Chronic stress, by contrast, keeps the muscles in a constant state of tension. Maintaining this tension over the long term can trigger other reactions in the body and can encourage the appearance of stress-related conditions.

For example, tension headaches and migraines are often associated with chronic muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and head. Similarly, lower back pain and upper limb pain are frequently correlated with stress, particularly work-related stress.

Millions of people suffer chronic pain caused by musculoskeletal conditions. Sometimes there is an initial injury, but the decisive factor in the development of chronic pain is how the person reacts to that injury. Those who fear pain and re-injury and look exclusively for a physical cause usually have a more difficult recovery than those who maintain a moderate level of physical activity under medical supervision.

Relaxation techniques and stress reduction activities have proven effective in reducing muscle tension, lowering the incidence of headaches and improving general well-being. In cases of chronic pain, managing stress contributes to improved emotional state and daily functioning.

The respiratory system

The respiratory system supplies oxygen to the cells and removes carbon dioxide. Stress and intense emotions can cause respiratory symptoms such as rapid breathing or a feeling of breathlessness, because the airways can narrow.

For people without respiratory conditions, this is usually not a major problem. However, psychological stress can worsen symptoms in people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Studies show that acute stress, such as the loss of a loved one, can trigger asthma attacks. Similarly, hyperventilation caused by stress can provoke panic attacks in susceptible people.

Working with a psychologist and learning breathing and relaxation techniques can be extremely helpful.

The cardiovascular system

The heart and blood vessels form the cardiovascular system, responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to the organs. In situations of acute stress, the heart rate increases and the heart muscle contracts more forcefully, under the influence of stress hormones such as adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol.

At the same time, the blood vessels supplying the large muscles and the heart dilate, increasing blood pressure. This mechanism is known as the “fight or flight” response.

Chronic stress keeps these reactions constantly active, which can lead over time to high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke. Persistent stress is also associated with inflammation of the coronary arteries and can negatively influence cholesterol levels.

In women, the cardiovascular risk associated with stress differs according to hormonal status. Women before menopause benefit from a protective effect of oestrogen, protection which declines after menopause.

The endocrine system

When a situation is perceived as threatening or hard to control, the brain activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, responsible for the hormonal response to stress. This process leads to the release of cortisol, known as the “stress hormone”.

Cortisol mobilises the energy the body needs by releasing glucose and fatty acids. In the short term, this mechanism is beneficial. But chronic stress can affect the functioning of the immune system and is associated with conditions such as chronic fatigue, diabetes, obesity, depression and immune disorders.

The gastrointestinal system

The gut contains millions of neurons and communicates constantly with the brain, which explains the digestive sensations that appear during stressful periods. Stress can cause abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and digestive discomfort.

Stress also influences the gut flora, which in turn can affect mood and cognitive function. Stress in childhood can change the way the nervous system reacts to stress, increasing the risk of digestive conditions later in life.

Stress can worsen symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.

The nervous system

The autonomic nervous system plays a central role in the stress response. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system triggers the “fight or flight” reaction, increasing heart rate, breathing and blood glucose levels.

Chronic stress keeps this system active for extended periods, which leads to wear on the body and damage to other systems.

The male reproductive system

Chronic stress can reduce testosterone levels, leading to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and fertility problems. It can also affect sperm production and quality.

The female reproductive system

Menstruation

Stress can cause irregular cycles, painful periods or the absence of periods.

Sexual desire

Fatigue, stress and emotional pressure can reduce libido.

Pregnancy

Stress can affect fertility, the progress of pregnancy and the postpartum period. Depression is one of the most common complications at this stage.

Premenstrual syndrome and menopause

Stress can worsen premenstrual symptoms and the hot flushes associated with menopause.

Managing stress

Recent research shows that stress can be managed effectively through:

• maintaining healthy social relationships
• regular physical activity
• quality sleep

These strategies are essential for physical and mental health. In cases of severe or chronic stress, the support of a psychologist can be extremely beneficial for improving quality of life.

Source: https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body