The Relationship Between Stress and Physical Health
Dr. Kristyn Gregory, D.O.
| 3 min read
Dr Kristyn Gregory, D.O., is a medical director at B...
By Kristyn Gregory, D.O., medical director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
There’s a saying that some people wear their heart on their sleeve, meaning their emotions are apparent and can be seen in their actions and expressions.
Similarly, some people wear their stress, and it can be seen and felt throughout their body. That’s because stress and physical health are incredibly interrelated. An individual’s stress can have physical implications, while an individual’s physical condition can create stress.
The mind-body connection
When individuals are under stress, it triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing adrenaline and cortisol, which provide the body with extra energy to get out of stressful situations.
When stress is acute – or short-term – like when in a traffic jam or giving a speech, the body’s stress response is usually short-term. But when stress is chronic – or ongoing – like during relationship troubles, a demanding job or a loved one’s illness–the body’s stress response remains consistent. This can have negative impacts on a person’s physical health.
Some of the ways chronic stress can impact the body include:
- Gastrointestinal: stomachaches, nausea, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea
- Circulatory: rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, increased risk of heart attack
- Endocrine: increased blood sugar levels
- Reproductive: low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, missed periods
- Other: headaches, insomnia, fatigue, weakened immune system
A caution on cortisol
While it is true that the body releases the hormones adrenaline and cortisol as part of its “fight or flight” response, much of the social media attention around cortisol imbalance is greatly exaggerated.
Having high levels of cortisol is extremely rare. When it does occur, it is almost always linked to a specific medication or due to a type of tumor.
If an individual suspects a problem with cortisol, they should consult with a medical professional who can determine if laboratory testing is necessary.
Stress reduction tips
Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising and getting good sleep can help improve mood and physical health. In addition, these tips and techniques can help to manage stress levels and reduce the impact of stress on the body.
- Rest and relax: Everybody needs down time, to re-set and re-charge. Take time to sleep, rest or just do nothing for a little while.
- Breathe and meditate: Deep-breathing and meditation both help to clear the mind and calm the body.
- Exercise: Engage in activities that get the body moving. This releases endorphins that improve mood and work off nervous energy that builds up under stress.
- Find a hobby: Spending time on an enjoyable activity helps to relax the mind and improve mood.
- Talk about it: A behavioral health professional can provide a non-judgmental ear, along with coping skills to help manage stress.
Stress management is essential for good physical health. Individuals can consult with their primary care provider to discuss an appropriate plan of action.
Kristyn Gregory, D.O., is medical director of behavioral health at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health tips and information, visit MIBlueDaily.com.
Image: Getty Images
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Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Kristyn Gregory, D.O.
