How does stress affect health?

Stress can be very bad for you as it affects your whole body.

So, how does stress affect health then?

Well prolonged stress causes huge changes and imbalances in us due to constant stimulation of our stress hormones.

You can suffer burn-out, fatigue, weakness and depression.

High blood pressure is common, which often, if unchecked, is a precursor to stroke and/ or angina and later a heart attack. Have you checked your blood pressure recently?

Cancers are increasingly thought to be brought on by stress as are problems with the immune system such as eczema , asthma and some auto-immune diseases.

Stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome can be caused by prolonged stress.

Another sign of prolonged chronic stress is more rapid ageing; ever noticed the rapid greying of hair in prime ministers and presidents you see on the news over time, or of those that have suffered a family tragedy?

Of course the final end point, premature death, is sadly more likely in the those suffering severe and prolonged stress due to the massive negative affects of stress on the body.

• if you suffer any of these health problems, and are not already receiving treatment, ensure you see your doctor immediately
• then reduce your exposure to stress, manage your stress, relax and improve your ability to cope. Over time, with less stress, your body will come back into balance and your health will improve

For more information

• on how does stress affect health
• to return to personal stress management for you