What health issues can result from prolonged stress?

Prolonged stress is known to have a significant negative impact on physical health and can lead to various health issues, with cardiovascular disease and weakened immune response being two of the most commonly recognized effects.

Chronic stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to prolonged exposure to stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Elevated levels of these hormones can contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure), increased heart rate, and other cardiovascular issues over time, potentially resulting in heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes.

Additionally, the immune system is adversely affected by prolonged stress, as high levels of stress hormones can suppress its function. This suppression makes the body more susceptible to infections, autoimmune diseases, and other health complications. The connection between chronic stress and these health problems underscores the importance of managing stress effectively to maintain overall health and well-being.