I frequently have headaches, backaches, upset stomach, shortness of breath, insomnia, and muscle soreness from involuntarily tensing my shoulders and neck whenever I am under stress, the severity of which ranges from mild to severe. Also, I cry over trivial matters, and negativity exaggerates the unpleasant attributes of exterior circumstances.
I have learnt from studying the endocrine system and the stress response that the stress reaction is a series of intricate physiological interactions, and that stress stimulates the hypothalamus to release Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF). The CRF excites the locus ceruleus (SNS) The locus ceruleus (SNS), anterior pituitary, and a small portion of the posterior pituitary are stimulated by CRF. The pituitary gland secretes ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol. 90% of cortisol is bound to cortisol-binding globulin or albumin to inhibit its clearance by the liver; it is inert in this state. In order to counterbalance the effects of insulin, the production of beta-endorphins, prolactin, and GH lowers pain sensation and changes lipid, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism. The Locus coeruleus triggers the release of norepinephrine (NE), which then flows to the hypothalamus, limbic system, hippocampus, and cerebral cortex. Activation of the SNS triggers the release of Epi and NE from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla to enable enhanced physical activity and quick ATP synthesis.
Aside from its physiological aspect, stress has both advantages and disadvantages, with hypermetabolic state and the fight-or-flight reaction being its positives. However, its downsides include extended stimulation that leads to muscle mass loss, nitrogen depletion, reduced immunological response, hyperglycemia, and CV dysfunction.
I've also learnt about the three stages of the body's response to stress: the alarm stage, the resistance stage, and the exhaustion stage. Alarm stage is the acute stress response elicited by the activation of the SNS, which leads in the production of Epi and NE, as well as their associated physiological effects. It is a hypermetabolic state that intensifies awareness and prepares the human body for the fight-or-flight response. Moreover, the stage of fatigue is chronic stress. There is an increase in monoamine activity, resulting in improved alertness and memory/mental function. In the final stage of fatigue, central monoamines are depleted and adrenocortical hormones are raised. Ultimately, it causes mortality, sleep, hunger, libido, fatigue, stunted growth, and hunger.
Foremost, I sought to understand how medical practitioners professionally deal with patients facing chronic stress, namely by eliminating the stressor, managing the stress response, and adapting coping methods.
Reference:
Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. (2014). Principles of anatomy & physiology. 14th edition. Danvers, MA, Wiley.