Stress in Your Body Systems Template

central nervous system

• Fight of flight response
• Release adrenaline and cortisol
• Increased heart rate, respiration rate
• Triggers stress responses
• Wear and tear on body
• Affects immune system

Gastrointestinal System

• "Butterflies" in the stomach
• Bloating and gust discomfort
• Gut bacteria influences mood
• Eating habits, more or less food
• Vomitting, nausea
• Intense stress can mimic a heart attack
• Increased substance use resulting in heartburn/acid reflux

Respiratory System

• Shortness of breath
• rapid breathing
• Trigger asthma attacks
• Trigger panic attacks
• Hyperventilation

Musculoskeletal System

• Muscles tense
• Constant state of guardedness
• Tension-type headache
• Migraines
• Low back pain
• May trigger other stress related disordered id muscles tense for extended periods of time

Cardiovascular System

• Increase in heart rate
• Adrenaline, noradrenaline, cortisol
• Elevated blood pressure
• Long term takes a toll on the body
• Inflammation in circulatory system
• Risk for hypertension, heart attack, or stroke
• Can affect cholesterol