How stress can harm your physical health

 

Cardiovascular system – Chronic stress raises blood pressure, increases heart rate, and can damage blood vessels over time. This heightens the risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.

Immune system – Stress hormones can weaken the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections, slower healing, and chronic illnesses.

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Digestive system – Stress can trigger stomachaches, indigestion, acid reflux, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It also changes how your body processes nutrients.

Musculoskeletal system – Stress causes muscles to tighten, leading to tension headaches, migraines, neck and back pain. Long-term muscle tension can contribute to chronic pain disorders.

Endocrine and metabolic effects – Elevated cortisol disrupts normal hormone balance, increases appetite, and contributes to weight gain, diabetes risk, and sleep disturbances.

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Reproductive system – Stress can affect fertility, disrupt menstrual cycles, reduce libido, and in men, lower testosterone levels or contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Nervous system – Prolonged stress alters brain function, impairing memory, focus, and increasing risk of anxiety and depression.

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