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What is stress?
Stress is a hard term to define because it differs for everyone. Things that may be stressful for some, may be pleasurable for others. For example, a roller coaster ride may be exhilarating for one person, but be a distressful situation for another. However, stress is not always a bad thing. Stress is needed to drive us to achieve goals and increase productivity. Stress becomes a bad thing when the point needed for productivity is exceeded. This point varies for each individual.
What are some signs of too much stress?
Too much physical or mental stress can lead to multiple signs including:
Headaches
Hair loss
Increased viral infections such as cold sores and colds
Panic attacks
Anger and frustration
Increased or decreased appetite
Chest pain
Insomnia
Depression
Increased drug or alcohol use
Reduced productivity at work or home
Forgetfulness or confusion
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Decreased sexual desire
Constipation or diarrhea
Mouth ulcers or dry mouth
Insomnia or nightmares
Are there any diseases linked to stress?
Stress seems to affect every part of the human body. There are many diseases and illnesses caused or worsened by stress. Some of the most common include: high blood pressure; increased chances of stroke and heart attack; increased susceptibility to viral infections such as certain cancers, herpes, and colds; increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis; skin problems such as rashes, hives, or dermatitis; stomach disorders such as ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and acid reflux.
How can one reduce or prevent stress?There are many things that one can do to reduce stress. Some stress busters include:
Jogging or walking for at least 30 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week
Meditation or prayer
Deep breathing techniques
Participating in favorite hobbies
Listening to favorite music
Taking a relaxing bath or any other soothing activity
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Nutritional supplements such as chamomile or spearmint may prove useful
Stress can be prevented by effectively managing one's time, avoiding stressful situations altogether, getting enough sleep, proper diet, and avoiding loads of caffeine, like that found in coffee and soda.
The most important point to remember for managing stress is to prevent it in the first place. Long-term use of medications such as sedatives and depression medications should be avoided and used as last resort due to chances of dependency and adverse side effects.
For further information regarding stress talk with your physician or pharmacist and you can visit www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/stress.html. This information is strictly informational. If you have any signs of stress and are concerned, talk to your physician or pharmacist before starting any supplements or implementing any lifestyle changes.
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