$Unique_ID{BRK02362}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{How Does Worrying and Stress Affect My Health?}
$Subject{worrying stress health worry defenses crisis fight-or-flight
epinephrine adrenaline adrenal glands frustrated pressure frustration mental
emotional psychological condition conditions behavior behaviors immune
immunity system}
$Volume{E-23,U-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How Does Worrying and Stress Affect My Health?


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QUESTION:  As if the problems in my life aren't bad enough, I spend even more
time worrying how all this stress is going to affect my health down the line.
Perhaps you would care to offer me some kind of prediction?  I think I am
making my situation worse than it is, but can't help myself.

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ANSWER:  The worst thing you can do under stress, say the experts, is worry
about it.  After all, worry is itself a form of stress.  And any kind of
stress experienced over a long period of time can weaken the body's defenses,
paving the way for a host of illnesses such as hypertension, ulcers, heart
disease, and (as recent research indicates) cancer.
     The way it works is this:  under crisis conditions, whether it be
pressure at work, divorce, or financial difficulties, the body reacts to
protect itself.  This "fight-or-flight" response causes the release of
epinephrine (also called adrenaline), a hormone produced in the adrenal
glands.  In turn the hormone signals the liver to release stored sugar for
energy, makes our breathing and heartbeat quicker, raises the blood pressure,
and tenses our muscles.  In other words, it prepares our body to either stand
and fight or run away from the danger.  If nothing happens, our supercharged
body, unable to release its pent-up energy, feels so frustrated it turns on
itself.  That's why people under pressure commonly experience headaches and
upset stomachs, as well as muscular aches and pains.  If this kind of
frustration happens too often, it can literally wear the body out.
     Studies have shown a direct link between stressful life events (change)
and serious accidents and illness.  The greater the number of events, the
greater the risk.  However, these same studies contend it's possible to undo
the harm by not overreacting to life's problems, by finding other outlets for
our energy through sports or regular exercise, and by practicing a little
meditation.
     I hate when doctors just say "Don't worry about it."  but in this case,
it really is an important bit of advice.  I'm hoping this answer will allay
some of your fears, and that by taking this advice you will be able to reduce
the stress that's wearing you down.  A good professional counselor would also
be of great help.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.