Just like two sides of the same coin, stress and anxiety are the two inevitable parts of our lives. Most people consider stress as a part of their lives and fail to understand its drastic impact. Whatever be the cause, no one enjoys the feeling of stress. There has been a lot of evidence showcasing how issues like low immunity, weight gain, high blood pressure, and many more can be caused due to stress.
Whether you believe it or not, as a matter of fact, stress isn’t all bad, but you shouldn’t push the boundaries too hard. In simpler words, you don’t have to worry much if it’s short-term stress aka acute stress. But, if it’s chronic stress, you better seek immediate help. Don’t worry if going to a doctor seems inconvenient.
Here’s a detailed explanation provided by one of the professionals. Read on to clear your doubt regarding how stress and anxiety can significantly weaken the immunity system:
The Link Between Stress and Immunity
Stress is responsible for producing a hormone named cortisol which in small quantities can effectively boost the immune system by limiting any sort of inflammation.
But with time, if your body gets too used to the cortisol released in the blood, it can lead to more inflammation and wear off your immune system’s power to fight foreign bodies.
Other Conditions That are Related to Stress
If you do not manage your stress levels well, you can become prone to chronic inflammation which might lead to the progression of several diseases such as:
- Lupus
- Fibromyalgia
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
- Arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Gastric Ulcer
- Diabetes and many more
Not only this but when you become prone to chronic stress, the cortisol released suppresses the responses of the immune system. In simpler words, studies have shown that people who suffer from chronic stress are likely to have a weak immune system as high cortisol levels reduce the natural defenses of the body. This makes the human body more susceptible to bacteria and viruses, delayed healing from injuries, and low vaccine efficacy.
The Correlation Between Anxiety and Immunity
Often caused due to prolonged stress, anxiety may also play a significant role in weakening the immune function. When anxiety kicks in, it creates physiological stress and worry rapidly increasing the cortisol production in the body making your immune system even weaker. On the other hand, anxiety also causes sleep disruptions which prevent the body from getting sufficient sleep necessary for a strong immune system.
Final Thoughts
In recent times as people become more aware of the significant impact of stress on mental health, access to quality healthcare has never been more convenient.
To understand how stress and anxiety can indeed weaken the immunity system, you must consult a medical professional timely. Taking this step would help you to actively manage your stress and secure your immune system with proactive measures.
Boost Your Clinic Online with Digitalmall’s Best Health Care Management Platform in Pakistan
Take your clinic online to the next level with Digital Mall’s subscription-based website, hassle-free! So What are you waiting for? Connect with us today and join the digital revolution!