It is already common knowledge that stress is the cause of many health problems. We all know this, but we probably do not imagine exactly how stress can alter the chemical reactions in the body and thus open the way to countless types of illness.
What is stress?
What the causes of stress are
Symptoms
Treatment and therapy
The effects of stress on bone and joint diseases
What is stress?
Stress is, in fact, a normal part of life which, over time, has helped us to survive. Stress triggers a "fight or flight" reaction in the body and, if it does not last long, it does no harm to our health.
There is a concrete link between mind and body, and intense emotions can trigger physical reactions. We are sure you have experienced unexpected events in life that "took your breath away" or "made your knees go weak".
When we have to get through a difficult event, we may feel that "our heart is in our mouth", and the physical expression of this emotion can lead to an upset stomach, vomiting or even an ulcer caused by intense stress.
So, it is not stress itself that can influence our health, but rather how long it lasts and how well we adapt to it or not.
What the causes of stress are
Stress is considered by most people to be an enemy that cannot be defeated. In the whirlwind of events of daily life, it is hard to avoid stress. The daily drive to work through hellish traffic is a source of stress. Relationships with family and colleagues, our financial or health situation, dissatisfaction with ourselves and much more all generate stress. Even if we have no extraordinary reasons to be stressed, this daily tension will, at some point, cause the body to send us a warning signal.
Symptoms
When we go through periods of stress, the body begins to secrete cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands. Also called the "stress hormone", cortisol is a natural reaction of the body, a mechanism for adapting to a situation perceived as dangerous. There is a "good" type of stress, which helps us get through more difficult events, and a "bad" type of stress, which extends over longer periods or even becomes chronic. Under these conditions, the high level of cortisol in the body will take its toll.
When we are stressed, we may experience physical symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Chest pain
- A feeling of suffocation
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Constipation or diarrhoea
Stress can also be followed by cognitive and emotional disturbances such as:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Memory and concentration problems
- Anger
Sleep disorders, appetite disorders, sexual dysfunction and social withdrawal are also part of the unwelcome procession of symptoms of prolonged stress.
Treatment and therapy
Stress in itself is not an illness, but a response of the body to the situations we face. However, stress can cause countless illnesses, from cardiovascular to digestive or bone and joint diseases. Stress affects the reproductive and immune systems. It is preferable to adopt strategies to prevent it, because once it has become chronic, it is the doctor who will establish the appropriate treatment and therapy.
Stress can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and physical exercise. Periods of overwork must be alternated with periods of rest and relaxation.
If we are wondering how the symptoms of chronic stress are treated, we must be aware that patience is needed. The recovery process is a slow one and takes place under medical guidance. The specialist is the one who will recommend, as appropriate, antidepressants, anxiolytics or sleeping tablets, in the very likely event that sleep disorders have also developed. Massage, reflexology, yoga, swimming and time spent in green spaces are complementary therapies that are of great help in such cases.
The effects of stress on bone and joint diseases
There are situations in which we immediately notice the body's reaction to psychological stress. But we may never have thought that stress also affects the health of the bone and joint system.
Cortisol acts as a diuretic, leading to the elimination of water and potassium and the retention of sodium. At the same time, it reduces the absorption of calcium, which is eliminated in the urine. So, when we are stressed, the skeletal system begins to release minerals into the bloodstream to help other tissues. This situation is the underlying cause of some bone and joint diseases. The bones are deprived of the minerals they need to stay healthy and strong. And since these are not always replaced through diet, bone density decreases and can lead to osteoporosis and fractures.
Another way in which stress is to blame for bone and joint conditions is that the increased level of cortisol inhibits the synthesis of collagen, which is so necessary for the health of tendons, joints and muscles. Research in recent years shows that people who suffer from depression or anxiety have lower bone density than those who are emotionally balanced.
In the case of bone demineralisation, for example, symptoms do not appear in the early stage, being visible only on X-rays. But if we have bone pain or fragility and muscle weakness, we must see a doctor urgently.
It is said that prevention is better than cure. And indeed, a healthy lifestyle – including a balanced diet, sport and relaxing activities – will help reduce stress and maintain the health of the bone and joint system.
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Ultrasound Bucharest
After graduating from the Choreography High School in Bucharest, Dr. Valerica Voicu chose to study medicine out of a desire to continue her journey with another form of art, that of direct communication with people who are suffering, in order to contribute to their health.
Dr. Valerica Voicu offers general ultrasound consultations at Artro Sport Clinic.
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