Globally, more than 31% of people report experiencing continuing stress that affects their quality of life. These rates have risen steadily for years, with increasing pressures at work and at home, as well as crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stress is typically considered an emotional issue, and it certainly has significant adverse effects on mental health. Depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders can be triggered or worsened by stress, but their reach extends far beyond mood.
Long-term stress creates lasting changes in your body that can impact your heart, digestion, weight, and even your immune system.
At the office of Keven Tagdiri, M.D. in Encinitas, California, we believe understanding these connections is the first step toward managing excess stress and preventing the widespread problems it can cause.
When you feel stressed, your body releases adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that raise heart rate and blood pressure. This fight-or-flight response helps in short bursts, but chronic stress puts a strain on your heart.
Over time, stress can contribute to high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and consequently, a higher risk of heart attack or stroke.
You may get sick more often when you’re under pressure; chronic stress weakens the immune system. While short-term stress can boost your body’s defenses, ongoing stress makes it harder to fight off infections, leaving you vulnerable to colds, flu, and other illnesses.
The gut and brain are closely connected. For example, stress can upset the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract (the gut microbiome) and alter the way food moves through your system.
That can cause heartburn, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. For people with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stress often triggers flare-ups and worsens symptoms.
Stress can alter your appetite. Some people overeat, turning to comfort foods, while others lose interest in eating altogether. High cortisol levels encourage fat storage, especially around the abdomen. This type of belly fat raises your risk of diabetes and other metabolic conditions.
A restless mind often leads to restless nights. Chronic stress makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to fatigue, poor focus, and irritability. Poor sleep then increases stress hormones, creating a harmful cycle that affects every aspect of your health.
Stress causes muscle tension, which can lead to headaches, neck pain, back pain, and jaw clenching. It can also make chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, feel worse. Over time, this physical tension can limit movement and lower your quality of life.
If stress goes unchecked for years, the consequences can be serious. Chronic stress is linked to heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and even certain autoimmune disorders.
It may also contribute to memory problems and accelerated aging. That’s why taking stress seriously is as important as managing blood pressure or cholesterol.
The good news is that you can take steps every day to reduce the impact of stress on your body. Dr. Tagdiri often recommends:
Walking, swimming, cycling, or any other form of exercise releases built-up tension.
Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and tai chi help to calm the nervous system.
Learning time management skills helps you feel less overwhelmed and improves productivity.
Contact with family, friends, or community groups gives you a safe space to share concerns and feel less isolated.
Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. We offer advice and support for everything from eating nutritious meals and maintaining hydration to enjoying consistent sleep.
Occasional stress is normal, but constant stress that disrupts daily life is a red flag. Any of the following problems may be stress-related:
At our office, we consider both the physical and emotional signs of stress to develop a comprehensive plan. Sometimes that includes counseling or stress-management therapy, and in some cases, medication may help regulate sleep or anxiety until balance is restored.
With the proper support, you can break the cycle of stress and protect your long-term health. Take action today for a healthier, more balanced future. Call Keven Tagdiri, M.D., today to arrange a chronic stress evaluation, or request an appointment online.
