What happens in the body when we are stressed? Stress affects our metabolism because neurotransmitters are released that once ensured our survival.
What happens in the body when we are stressed? The chemistry of neurotransmitters
What happens in the body when we are stressed? Stress increases our ability to react in dangerous situations. We are wide awake and on alert, a stress reaction that helped our ancestors to ensure their survival. The physical reactions to stress are still the same today as they were in times when we had to defend ourselves against wild animals or go hunting in freezing temperatures:
- A variety of neurotransmitters are released, including adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol. These accelerate the heartbeat and thus increase blood pressure. Blood sugar levels also rise.
- The brain and muscles are supplied with more oxygen. We are highly concentrated and full of energy. The pupils dilate and the muscles tense. The concentration of stomach acid increases.
- At the same time, your digestive and sexual organs work more slowly. The cerebrum, with its slow and thorough cognitive processes, is switched off. Instead, you react impulsively, instinctively, without thinking, but at lightning speed.
- In order to react spontaneously to threatening situations, stress can inspire and strengthen in the short term. This positive stress, which makes you responsive and efficient, is also known as Eustress designated.
Side effects of stress on the body
If pressure to perform, overstimulation or time pressure trigger stress, these biological reactions have of course become alienated from their original purpose of arming us against attacks. Nevertheless, we still feel that our body is reacting in a battle-ready state. If the body remains permanently or for a long time on alert, the positive effect of stress is reversed in so-called Distress This has negative effects on our health:
- Constant stress weakens the immune system. We become more susceptible to infections and inflammatory diseases.
- Our muscles harden and tense up painfully. The symptoms are usually made worse by protective postures.
- The function of the sex glands can be impaired, which can lead to unwanted childlessness.
- Blood sugar levels rise because the stress hormone cortisol impairs the effect of insulin. The pancreas therefore secretes more insulin. This increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- If blood pressure is elevated over a long period of time or permanently, the risk of cardiovascular disease or even a heart attack or stroke increases. Therefore, check your blood pressure regularly with a blood pressure monitor if you are under stress and tend to have high blood pressure. Permanently elevated blood pressure should be treated with medication if it does not regulate itself during periods of relaxation.
- The digestive system is impaired in its function. Nausea, heartburn or diarrhea can be the result.