Stress is an inevitable part of life, however, chronic stress can seriously harm our health, especially the immune system.
According to Dr. Priyanka Kapoor, Psychotherapist, Psychologist, Marriage and Family Counselor (India), prolonged stress will impair the function of immune cells, increasing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases. Here is detailed information about how stress affects the immune system and how to protect your health.
Stress and the immune system
When the body is under stress, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are released, helping the body cope with short-term threats. In these situations, stress can help strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight disease or injury. However, when stress is prolonged, cortisol levels increase and will begin to weaken the immune system. This reduces the body's ability to fight pathogens, while increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
The role of inflammation in diseases caused by stress
Dr. Priyanka Kapoor says stress can affect the body's immune system through inflammation. Although short-term inflammation helps the body fight infections, prolonged stress causes chronic inflammation, damaging tissues and organs. This can lead to health problems such as arthritis, digestive disorders and even depression. Chronic inflammation caused by stress can also contribute to long-term conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders.
How to manage stress
mindfulness and relaxation: Meditation and deep breathing help reduce cortisol.
Exercise: Helps reduce stress and boost immunity.
Healthy diet: Provides vitamins and minerals to support immunity.
Get enough sleep: Helps the body recover and reduce stress.
Social connection: Strengthening relationships helps reduce anxiety.
Note
Dr. Priyanka Kapoor emphasizes that stress is an inevitable part of life, but the negative impact of chronic stress on the immune system should not be ignored. Although short-term stress can help boost immunity, long-term exposure to stress hormones will weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and chronic diseases.
