There are a number of different illnesses that can be caused by stress. These include: anxiety, depression, heart disease, gastrointestinal problems, and headaches. Stress can also make existing conditions worse. For example, if you have asthma, stress can trigger an attack.
Asthma
Asthma is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with asthma have inflamed airways that are extra sensitive to irritants such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, cold air, exercise, strong emotions (stress), tobacco smoke and other airborne pollutants. When exposed to one or more of these triggers (allergens or irritants), the muscles around the walls of the airways tighten (bronchospasm), making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. The lining of the airway also swells (inflammation), further narrowing the passageway for airflow. This can result in an asthma attack – which can range from mild to life-threatening – characterized by difficulty breathing that may require emergency medical treatment.
While there is no cure for asthma at this time, it can be controlled through avoidance of triggers (allergens or irritants that set off an attack) and use of medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Asthma medications fall into two main categories: quick-relief drugs used during an acute asthma attack; and long-term control drugs taken regularly on a daily basis even when you’re feeling fine in order to prevent future attacks. Quick-relief drugs work quickly – usually within minutes – to open up constricted airways so you can breathe more easily during an acute asthma attack. Long-term control drugs are taken daily on a long-term basis regardless of whether you’re having symptoms at the time in order prevent future attacks from occurring. In some cases both types medications may be necessary in order keep your condition under control. It’s important follow your healthcare provider’s instructions exactly when taking any type medication for asthma as improper use can lead serious health consequences.
Living with uncontrolled asthma can be very difficult – impacting not only your physical health but also your mental well-being due constant fear another potentially life threatening attack. If you feel like your current treatment plan isn.
Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is usually caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. This type of diabetes used to be known as juvenile onset diabetes because it often begins in childhood or adolescence. Type 2 diabetes typically develops later in life and is often associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. In type 2 diabetes, either the body doesn’t make enough insulin or cells develop resistance to insulin’s effects.
No matter what type of diabetes you have, it can lead to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels throughout your body and increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, gum infections, and more. That’s why managing your stress levels is so important if you have this condition.
There are many different ways to manage stress effectively. Some people find that regular exercise helps them blow off steam and reduces their overall stress levels. Others find relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation helpful for managing stress in a healthy way. And for some people simply learning how to better manage their time and prioritize their obligations can make a big difference in reducing daily stressors.