Stress in Your Body Systems Template

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The Nervous System - How does it interact with stress?

• When the body is stressed, the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) contributes to the "fight or flight" response - the body shifts it's energy toward fighting off a life threat, or fleeing from an enemy
• SNS signals adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol hormones raising heartreat and preparing the body to respond in a stressful situation
• When the crisis is over, the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) takes over to help the body recover

The Female Reproductive System - How does it interact with stress?

• Menstruation - more stress can result in absent or irregular menstrual cycles, more painful periods, and changes in the length of cycles
• Sexual desire - stress, distraction, & fatigue may reduce sexual desire
• Pregnancy - stress can negatively affect a woman's ability to concieve, the health of her pregnancy, and her postpartum adjustment
• Premenstrual syndrome - stress may make premenstrual symptoms worse, including cramping, fluid retention, bloating, negative mood, mood swings
• Disease of the reproductive system is more likely with high stress levels

The Respiratory System - How does it interact with stress?

• Stress and strong emotions can present within respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath and rapid breathing, as the airway between the nose and lungs constricts
• Psychological stressoes can exacerbate breathing problems for people with pre-existing respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Acute stress can also trigger asthma attacks as well as panic attacks

Gastrointestinal System - How does it interact with stress?

• Stress can affect brain-gut communication and may trigger pain, bloating, and other gut discomfort to be felt more easily
• Stress is associated with changes in gut bacteria which in turn can influence mood
• When stressed, individuals may eat much more or less than usual, which can lead to consumption of food or drugs that result in heartburn and acid reflux
• Stress can also make swallowing foods more difficult or increase the amount of air that is swallowed, which increases burping, gassiness, and bloating
• This change in appetite and diet can in turn deteriorate ones mood