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Effects of Stress in The Organ Systems


Effects of Stress in The Organ Systems

SystemImmediate effectsChronic stressLong-term negative effectsHow to cope (Tips)
Musculo-skeletalMuscle tension – body’s way of guarding against injury or painConstant state of tension around shoulder, neck and head
  • Headaches
  • Migraine
Muscle relaxation techniques
RespiratoryDeep breaths – to increase intake of oxygen required for immediate actionStrained breathing, trigger asthma attacks
  • Panic attacks
  • Hyperventilation
Breathing strategies and relaxation
CardiovascularIncrease in heart rate and stronger contractions of the heart muscle. Dilation of heart due to directing blood to large muscles, elevation of blood pressure.Constant rise in heart rate, continued elevated levels of stress hormones and elevated blood pressure.
  • Risk for heart disease
  • Inflammation of circulatory system and coronary arteries
  • Hypertension
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Stroke
Relaxation helps in bringing back the elevated heart rates and blood pressure. Day off from work, going on holidays are some of the strategies engaged by people for relief
EndocrineAdrenal cortex produces cortisol and adrenal medulla produces epinephrine. Reacting to the above hormones, liver produces more glucose to provide energy.Continued elevated sugar levels Regular exercise and monitoring blood sugar levels
Nervous systemSympathetic nervous system signals the release of adrenalin and cortisol, which in turn make heart beat faster, increase respiration rate, dilation of blood vessels, increase blood glucose levels and changes in digestive systemResults in long-term drain in the body, continuous activation of the nervous system can cause problems in other bodily systems
  • Fatigue
  • Wear and tear of organ systems
Techniques like yoga and meditation have helped keep the nerves calm
Gastro-intestinalStomach reacts with “butterflies”, sometimes nausea and pain may occur. Emotional eating and other eating disorders are associated with stress.

Increase in consumption of alcohol or tobacco can cause heartburn or acid reflux.

Emotional eating and other eating disorders are associated with stress. Increase in consumption of alcohol or tobacco can cause heartburn or acid reflux.
  • Severe stomach pain, with (or even without) ulcers.
  • Malabsorption of nutrients in the intestine.
  • Speed of bowel movement is affected that may cause diarrhea or constipation.
  • Meditation and relaxation
  • Eating balanced meals
  • Including fruits and vegetables and fiber in the diet
  • Consuming enough water
  • Avoiding junk food
Immune systemInhibit trafficking of neutrophils, macrophages, antigen-presenting cells, Natural killer cells and T and B lymphocytes.Suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, required for generation of adaptive immune responses.
  • Reduction in immunity
  • Susceptible to infections and inflammations
  • Slow wound healing
  • Alters autoimmune diseases
  • Regular exercise boost immune system
  • Deep breathing and yoga boosts immune system
  • Balanced diet takes care of nutrition deficiencies
Male reproductive systemProduction of testosterone and activates sympathetic nervous system, creating arousalAffects the normal biochemical functioning o f the male reproductive system
  • Affects testosterone production, sperm production and maturation
  • Causes erectile dysfunction
  • Impotence
  • Testes, prostate gland and urethra are prone to infection
  • Relaxation
  • Regular exercise such as aerobics and walking
  • Strength training exercises
  • Hormonal replacements (on doctor’s advice)
Female reproductive systemRapid hormonal fluctuationsAbsent or irregular menstrual cycles, painful periods and fluctuations in length of cycles

Anxiety, mood swings and feelings of distress, especially during menopause.

  • Depression
  • Mood swings
  • Reduced sexual desire
  • Adequate nutrients intake with balanced food
  • Regular exercise like walking
  • Vitamin and mineral supplements
  • Hormonal replacements (on doctor’s advice)
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