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Stress is constantly surrounding us. Our bodies are equipped to handle acute stress, but chronic stress wears down our body, exhausts us, and can overwhelm our body’s ability to adapt. Do you know how it is affecting your nervous system and health?
Acute stress is an immediate response to danger or a stressful situation. It can be a healthy stress to move us to action and to keep us safe. Perhaps you come across a snake while hiking, or your boss moved up a deadline, or a car is speeding your direction. These are examples of acute stress where action is needed.
When stress occurs, your hypothalamus, located above the brain stem, is activated. It communicates to your nervous system (the body’s communication system), which will talk to the endocrine system (a group of organs that release hormones through the pituitary gland). It tells your sympathetic nervous system to speed up—hit the gas pedal! This is our fight-or-flight response.
When the body experiences acute stress, it generates a physical reaction to release adrenaline, the main stress hormone, and cortisol. The heart rate increases, breathing is more shallow, blood pressure increases, blood sugar levels go up, and the liver makes more glucose for extra energy.
When the stress or danger subsides, a healthy body goes back to a point of equilibrium or homeostasis. Blood pressure and blood sugar returns to normal, and normal blood flow to the digestive system returns. The body can then go in to rest and repair, and the para-sympathetic system can function appropriately.
Chronic stress, as opposed to acute stress, keeps that “gas pedal” of physical responses pushed continuously, and the body cannot rest, repair or “brake” when needed if chronic stress is present. That’s the DANGER! What are some of the health issues related to chronic stress?
· Cardiovascular Disease
· Obesity
· Depression and Anxiety
· Sleep Problems
· Fatigue
· Reduced Sex Drive
· Muscle Tension or Pain
· Digestive Issues
· Drug or Alcohol Abuse
· Irritability
Chiropractic treatment helps stress by combating the negative effects and clearing the nervous system. One of the key benefits of chiropractic treatment is to “reset” the nervous system and help the body adapt and respond to stress. Atlas Orthogonal chiropractors care for patients of all ages and health conditions with precise and gentle chiropractic adjustments. No popping or cracking. The doctors at Foresight Chiropractic are Board Certified and have been caring for patients for over 15 years in the Gilbert Arizona area.
In the upcoming series of information, we will talk about ways you can combat stress. We also invite you to take charge of your health by attending our free weekly Wellness classes with Dr. Lavender and Dr. Jarman on Tuesday evenings at 6:15 pm in our office. Call 480-325-6977 to reserve your space or schedule a free consultation.
