|
June 11, 2004 |
| Stress and Anxiety
Systems in the Body Affected by Anxiety Though the physiological response to anxiety or stress is the same no matter what the initial stressor is (physical danger, psychological distress, or imaginary threat), the chemical trigger for anxiety can vary greatly. For example, the chemical imbalance that triggers PMS-related anxiety is often quite different from the chemical or hormonal imbalances seen in hyperthyroidism or menopause-related anxiety. In women with anxiety or panic episodes, the sympathetic nervous system is actually too sensitive or too easily triggered. Their systems are too often in a state of readiness to react to a crisis. This puts them in a constant state of tension. When a woman identifies anxiety as a serious complaint, any of four body systems may be compromised: The nervous system, which comprises the fibers that connect the brain, organs, and muscles by transmitting impulses that allow normal bodily sensation and movement, as well as the experience and expression of moods and feelings. The endocrine or glandular system, which regulates reproductive and metabolic functions, such as menstruation and the efficient burning of food for energy. The endocrine glands communicate with one another by secreting chemicals called hormones into the bloodstream. These carry chemical messages from one gland to another. The immune system, which fights foreign invaders in the body such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. It also includes the body’s response to allergies, which occur when the body overreacts to harmless substances. The cardiovascular system, which consists of the heart and all the blood vessels in the body.
Read More on Anxiety and Stress: Getting Started Systems in the Body Affected by Anxiety Quiz: How Balanced are Your Neurotransmitters? Keep it SIMPLE tip Think Good Thoughts Nutritional Therapies Restore Your Ability to Manage Stress with a Stress-Reducing Diet Restore Your Ability to Manage Stress with Stress-Reducing Supplements Complementary Therapies Reduce Stress with Reflexology
|
|
home | contact
us | disclaimer| privacy policy | terms and conditions | press room
|
