Physical Effects Of Stress On Women.

Whilst the true effects of stress on the body will never be completely known, many common physical effects are believed to be either, caused or exacerbated, by bouts of sudden stress or unrelieved, chronic stress. The physical effects on both sexes are generally fairly similar, however, the effects of stress on women are thought to be intensified by hormonal changes.

People that are over stressed will often catch colds and flu's. They will, generally, feel run down and always seem to be picking up the latest bug that is going round at work or school. They will also struggle to shift the illness once they have it. It is thought that the immune system is weakened by chronic stress because it is overstimulated and attacks parts of the body that protect the body from illness. Or, it becomes sluggish to common illnesses because it has been operating at a over-stimulated rate and does not recognise the illness as a potential problem.

Acute stress is said to increase the level of amino-acid homocysteine in the blood, that is thought to increase the risk of heart disease. Stress in women is thought to lower the levels of oestrogen in the blood, that is believed to maintain cardiac health. It is believed that during stressful situations, blood becomes more viscous in preparation for potential injury. It is thought this 'sticky' blood can lead to blood clots and strokes.

Chronic stress is thought to cause the body to release more of the hormone cortisol into the bloodstream. It is believed that excessive amounts of cortisol can cause the shut down of menstruation.

Other common physical effects of stress include diarrhoea, constipation, stomach cramps and bloating. It is thought that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and peptic ulcers can be inflamed by prolonged stress. Skin can often become dry and itchy for people suffering from chronic stress. The skin will be more sensitive to rashes and cuts and will take longer to heal.

Brain function has been known to be impaired for people under prolonged stress. There ability to learn and memory function are reduced.

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