Stress is an inevitable part of life that everyone responds differently to. Some people in Brookfield WI have a very high tolerance for stress and others feel the effects of even the slightest stressors. Typically, there are signs when the body is placed under pressure. However, the real danger is you may be under stress and not even realize it.

Both negative and positive types of stress can you tie you up in knots. The effects of negative stress, such as the death of a loved one, may be reasonably obvious. However, positive stress, referred to as eustress, such as occurs when planning a big event like a wedding or trip around the world, can have just as much of a negative effect on your health. It is essential to know your body and how it handles stress so you can deal with it before things start to spiral out of control.

Psychological stresses trigger a physiological bodily reaction known as the "fight-or-flight response." When the body perceives a threat, the autonomic nervous system releases the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. This gives the body a burst of strength and energy in preparation for dealing with the risk by either fighting it or running away. Once the perceived threat has been neutralized, by fighting it off of escaping, the body returns to a healthy state of homeostasis, or balance, and all is well. However, while this works as nature intended for immediate threats, long term stress can lead to a buildup of the stress hormones and can result in significant health issues.

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Negative Health Impacts in Brookfield WI

Chronic or long-term stress can produce serious health issues. While the initial symptoms may be relatively mild, such as headaches and a compromised immune system that will leave you with increased susceptibility to cold and flu virus, long-term exposure to stress can result in a host of health problems, including:

• Anxiety
• Dental and Gum Disease
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Hair Loss
• Heart Attack
• Heart Disease
• Hypertension
• Hyperthyroidism
• Insomnia
• Obesity
• Sexual Dysfunction
• Stroke
• Ulcers

Other issues include:

• Irritability: This is one of the first signs of stress taking control.
• Burnout: One of the most dangerous impacts of stress, burnout and can leave you feeling exhausted and apathetic towards work, family, friends, and the activities you typically enjoy.
• Weight Loss or Gain: Stress can impact appetite and cause you to eat more or less than usual, causing you to lose or gain weight.

The good news is stress is very manageable once you learn to recognize the symptoms.

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Managing Stress

Physical activity is good for everything that ails you and is especially effective at dealing with stress. Exercise burns off the stress hormones and releases endorphins into your system.

Mediation is a great way to center the mind, focus your thoughts, and increase mindfulness.

While many people don't think of visiting their chiropractic provider when dealing with emotional issues, chiropractic care will help you to relax, release stress and help you get the rest you need when experiencing long-term stress.

If you are looking for pain management in Brookfield, give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We have offices in Brookfield WI, New Berlin WI, and Williams Bay WI, and our skilled team promises always to make your health our top priority.