Stress is your body’s reaction to pressure from many conditions in your life.
Stress can be useful since it keeps us alert, motivated, and ready to avert danger. When stressors continue without relief or periods of relaxation, though, it becomes a problem.
This is especially true in today’s fast-paced world when chronic stress has a substantial impact on your mind and body.
Continue reading to find out how stress affects your physical and emotional health, as well as what you can do about it.
How Stress Can Affect Your Body

Endocrine And Central Nervous Systems

Your ‘fight or flight’ reaction is controlled by your central nervous system.
The hypothalamus sends a signal to your adrenal glands to release stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol when you are faced with a stressful situation.
These hormones speed up your heart rate and blood flow to your vital organs.
The body will usually regulate itself after an event, but the stress reaction will prolong if the stressor is still present and/or your central nervous system fails to regulate itself.
Stress, whether frequent or chronic, can contribute to physical and mental health issues such as diabetes, obesity, immunological diseases, depression, and chronic fatigue.
Respiratory system
The respiratory system is in charge of oxygen supply to cells and carbon dioxide removal from the body.
Shortness of breath or fast breathing can be caused by stressful conditions because the airway between your lungs and nose constricts.
Stressful life events can increase breathing problems in those with pre-existing respiratory disorders including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
For someone who is prone to panic attacks, stress-induced rapid breathing (hyperventilation) may trigger one.
Cardiovascular System

Overwhelming stress may cause your heart rate to rise. Your blood pressure rises as your body tries to give oxygen-rich blood to every cell.
Continuous stress can result in excessive amounts of stress hormones and high blood pressure, both of which can lead to heart disease.
Stress, whether frequent or chronic, can increase your risk of hypertension, cardiac arrest, and stroke. It’s also possible that long-term stress has an effect on your cholesterol levels.
Musculoskeletal System
In response to sudden onset tension, muscles tense all at once, then relax once the stimulus has passed.
However, if you’re constantly stressed, your muscle tension will stay constant too.
Muscle tension can exacerbate chronic, stress-related musculoskeletal diseases, leading to muscle atrophy, or the weakening or loss of muscle tissue.
Reproductive System
Stress can cause testosterone levels in men to diminish over time, interfering with sperm production and sexual desire, and even leading to erectile dysfunction.
Chronic stress may make male reproductive organs including the prostate and testes more susceptible to infection.
Lack of sexual desire, painful periods, and an increased risk of postpartum depression are all stress-related impacts on women.
Digestive System
When your stress levels rise, your liver produces extra blood sugar to give your body energy. The extra blood sugar surge may increase the risk of diabetes if your stress levels remain elevated for a long time.
As a result, stomach acid levels may rise, resulting in heartburn and acid reflux. Long-term stress has also been associated with gastrointestinal illnesses like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and stomach ulcers in several studies.
Are You Feeling Stressed?

Stress effects can be seen in many forms like:
Physical symptoms
Insomnia
Aching muscles
Cold or sweaty hands
Teeth grinding and clenched jaw
Emotional symptoms
Easily agitated, frustrated, and moody
Unable to unwind and feeling overwhelmed
Low self-confidence
Keeping to oneself
Behavioral symptoms
Developing a fidgety attitude
Procrastinating
Appetite fluctuates
Substance abuse
Cognitive symptoms
Feeling pessimistic and finding it hard to look at the positives
Worrying and thinking constantly
Inability to concentrate and make sound decisions
Stress-induced memory impairment
What triggers stress?
There are numerous factors that might cause stress. Furthermore, not everyone reacts to an incident in the same way; something that stresses you out may not upset someone else.
As a result, pinpointing the particular causes of stress can be difficult. However, some common sources of stress include:
Stressful life events
Workplace anxiety
Financial uncertainty
Problems in relationships
Irrational expectations
Pessimistic attitude toward life
What can I do to cope with the effects of stress?

Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing enhance the body’s relaxation reaction, which is the polar opposite of the stress response.
Eat a well-balanced diet. The food you eat might alter your mood and capacity to cope with life’s stresses.
Get some shut-eye. Tiredness can increase stress levels by causing you to make rash decisions. On the other side, chronic stress might disrupt your sleep.
Vitality Can Help You Release Your Stress!
Have you been suffering from chronic issues like migraines, Meniere’s disease, shoulder pain, vertigo, neck pain or even digestive problems?
Chiropractic care can aid in the relief of chronic stress symptoms, especially the issues mentioned above.
Interested in learning more?
Book an appointment today for a consultation.
Faqs
Can chronic stress impact my overall health?
Yes, chronic stress can contribute to various health problems, including cardiovascular issues, weakened immune system, digestive disorders, and mental health issues.
How can a chiropractor in Singapore help with chronic stress?
Chiropractors in Singapore can help manage chronic stress by using techniques like spinal adjustments to reduce physical tension, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being.
What are the benefits of seeking chiropractic care in Singapore for chronic stress?
Chiropractic care in Singapore offers a holistic approach to managing chronic stress, addressing both physical and emotional aspects, promoting balance, and enhancing overall health.
CAN CHIROPRACTIC THERAPIES IN SINGAPORE ALLEVIATE SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC STRESS?
Yes, chiropractic therapies in Singapore can help alleviate symptoms of chronic stress by reducing muscle tension, improving spinal alignment, and enhancing nervous system function.
Are there specific chiropractic techniques used in Singapore for managing chronic stress?
Chiropractors in Singapore may use techniques like spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and relaxation techniques to address chronic stress and promote overall well-being.
How can I find a reputable chiropractor in Singapore to help with chronic stress?
When searching for a chiropractor in Singapore, look for professionals experienced in stress management, read reviews, and consider seeking referrals for the right chiropractor for your needs.
Is chiropractic care in Singapore suitable for everyone experiencing chronic stress?
Chiropractic care is generally safe and can benefit most individuals experiencing chronic stress. However, it’s important to consult with a chiropractor in Singapore for personalized advice.
Written by
Shaan Rai (Chiropractic, Singapore)
Shaan (UK) is based in Singapore. He is a GCC registered Singapore Chiropractor, completing a 5 year course at AECC, attaining his Masters in Chiropractic. His career has been specialised in neurological cases, such as migraines and vertigo. He is the Vuce President and Chairman for Outreach & Charity for Alliance of Chiropractic (AoC) and is a founder of Vitality Chiropractic Singapore. He developed the NeuroPro method, combining Upper Cervical techniques with Functional Neurology Rehab.