ROME, Ga., Feb. 2, 2024 – Occasional stress is a normal coping mechanism. But long-term or chronic stress often comes with physical consequences, and some of them are heart-related.
Almost every day, Erica M. Call, M.D., a psychiatrist with Atrium Health Floyd Behavioral Health, says she sees patients who are dealing with stress. It's a good idea to seek help if your stress is causing a major decline in work or school or if you find yourself simply unable to cope with everyday life.
“If you are not careful, your stress levels can become overwhelming," Call said. “Most people understand the mental health angle of stress, but it can also lead to serious health conditions."
There is a real relationship between anxiety and illness and those who have physical health problems complicated by anxiety tend to have worse symptoms, respond less well to treatment and are more likely to have fatal illnesses, including multiple long-term conditions (living with two or more chronic illnesses).
For instance, stress can decrease your metabolism which can lead to obesity. You get what's called metabolic syndrome, that can lead to diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
“There is a definite connection between stress and high blood pressure," Call said. “And sometimes patients try to self-medicate, which can often lead to more problems. Insomnia can also become an issue for people who are not controlling their stress levels."
Call has some she often tells patients experiencing stress to make sure they get some exercise. And, since insomnia can also be an issue she also urges her patients to try to put down their cell phone at meals and at bedtime.
Consuming alcohol can also be a mistake as a stress reliever, because, while it can help people relax, it can also lead to alcohol abuse.