How Does Stress Hormones Affect Our Body?

Dr.Monika Sharma, 3 mins read

In today’s hectic life, stress has become a part of our everyday routine. Whether it is due to work, school, money problems, or personal relationships, we all feel stressed from time to time. Currently, the movie "Saiyara" is gaining a lot of popularity, since it portrays the main character dealing with immense stress. The actor character closely resonates with many young boys, showing them that it is normal to face challenges and that seeking help can be a part of overcoming stress.

But the main thing which many people don’t know is how stress affects the body, especially through stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. These hormones can have both short-term and long-term effects on our health. 

What Are Stress Hormones?

When we feel stressed, our brain sends signals to the body to get ready for a fight or flight response by releasing stress hormones. These are mainly comprised of:

• Cortisol: Known as the main stress hormone. It controls blood sugar, reduces inflammation, and helps with metabolism.
• Adrenaline (also called epinephrine): It gives us a sudden burst of energy, increases heart rate, and makes us more alert. 
• Norepinephrine: It works like adrenaline and helps to focus the brain and controls blood pressure. These hormones are helpful if released in small amounts and for short periods. But if stress continues for a long time, they can start to harm the body.

Short-Term Effects of Stress Hormones

In the short term, stress hormones can help you:

• To think more clearly
  
• React promptly in dangerous situations
  
• Stay awake and alert
  
• Improve focus and memory
  

Long-Term Effects of Stress Hormones

In the long term, stress hormones affect different parts of the body in the following ways:

1. Heart: Stress hormones increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, or even a heart attack.
2. Immune System: Cortisol can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections and heal quickly.
3. Stomach and Digestion: Stress can cause stomachaches, acid reflux, or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You may also eat too much or too little.
4. Sleep: High levels of stress hormones can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. Poor sleep affects your mood, energy, and thinking.
5. Mental Health: Chronic stress is linked to anxiety, depression, and memory problems. It can make you feel tired, nervous, or even hopeless.
6. Weight: Cortisol can make you crave unhealthy food and gain weight, especially around the belly.

What Can You Do?

1. Exercise regularly: Walking, yoga, or dancing helps lower cortisol.
   
2. Sleep well: Aim for 7to 9 hours of sleep every night.
   
3. Eat healthy: A balanced diet will keep our body strong and our mind clear.
   
4. Take breaks: Relax and do things you enjoy, read, listen to music, or spend time with loved ones.
   
5. Talk to someone: Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or counselor can really help.
   

Conclusion

Stress hormones are part of your body’s natural defense system. They are helpful in small doses, but when stress becomes constant, these hormones can damage your health. If you have any questions related to management of stress, you can consult our expert at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka for best treatment and care.