If the experts tell us we should try to take life easy, it’s for a reason. Our body is a machine, and, like all machines, it wears down over time and suffers in harmful situations. Stress is one of the most damaging aspects in our lives, so we need to avoid it at all costs and take preventative measures before it’s too late.
Many of us see stress as part of our daily lives and that we have to learn to live with it, but the reality is that we’re not aware (or don’t want to be) of all the harmful effects it has on our physical and mental health. According to Judit Calpe, medical director and family doctor at mediQuo – a 24/7 medical chat app -, “whenever there’s a problem, we have two options: fight or flight. And our body doesn’t act any differently; when faced with a stressful situation, it prepares for it with all the consequence that come with it”.
Stress not only causes short-term effects; if it becomes chronic, the illnesses we’re exposed to become serious and make it impossible for us to live a full and healthy life. It’s important to know what we’re up against and, above all, how to prevent it. For this reason, the mediQuo medical director explains the consequences and how to deal with them in time, even if you’re not going on holiday this summer.
What effects does stress have on our body?
- Muscle tension and lockjaw. One of the most common effects of stress is that it keeps the body tense, especially around the shoulders, neck and jaw. This can also cause muscle contractures and teeth grinding when we’re asleep if it becomes chronic, therefore, it’s ifundamental to avoid it.
- Headaches can potentially be limiting as they prevent us from concentrating or being productive at work, so avoiding stress is essential to make the most of our time.
- Stomachaches, diarrhoea and constipation are some of the most common warning signs our body sends us to stop.
- Stress affects our state of mind and can cause depression and anxiety, two things we must clearly avoid if we want to live a full and healthy life.
- Irritability and apathy are also closely linked to stress. The more pressure we have on our shoulders, the less we enjoy everything else around us.
- If you have insomnia or are very tired, Dr Calpe recommends you stop to think and realise that rest is vital for our health and start to take things more slowly.
- Stress causes acne and eczema, which, in addition to being uncomfortable and annoying can also leave permanent scars on our body.
How can we avoid stress?
- Get regular exercise and eat a balanced diet. The mediQuo medical director said that it’s also important to avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco.
- Free time is fundamental. We must enjoy moments to ourselves and do activities surrounded by friends and family. Say yes to walking and reading and no to TV and excessive time online.
- Practice relaxation techniques daily: meditation, yoga, breath control… Any of these are valid to live more calmly.
- Seek professional help. Doctor Calpe is very clear on this: “psychologists and therapists can help you with stress management techniques.”
