Page 124 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2025

HEALTHY LIVING
Stress
AND YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
story by Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray
Studies suggest that nearly 70 percent of primary care doctor Other immune-related diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and
visits are due to issues associated with stress and lifestyle. For effective treatment and prevention, you and your doctor must consider your illnesses and your experiences with life challenges. Stress negatively affects the immune system.
Edwina Roland is a nurse practitioner practicing in Harrison County. She emphasizes that stress “can manifest in illness in almost all organ systems of the body. It is important to find healthy outlets to relieve stress before physical symptoms become long-term health problems.”
Many illnesses are caused by inflammation. The link
between depression and inflammation interacts with dietary balance. Stress promotes unhealthy food choices that promote inflammation, with higher stress associated with decreased eating of fruit and vegetables and increased sweets and fast food.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Stress contributes to all types of heart disorders, including coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure,
and sudden cardiac death. Because a third of sudden cardiac deaths cannot be fully explained, stress may explain some of the discrepancies.
systemic lupus, may show a pattern of flares brought on by stress. Stress appears to worsen asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Changes in estrogen and testosterone levels can show an increased association with various types of stressors.
Many skin rashes have been associated with the body’s stress response, highlighting a significant connection between mental health and skin health. Stress can trigger skin inflammatory responses, leading to conditions such as eczema, psoriasis,
or hives. During stress, your body releases hormones like cortisol, affecting the immune system. This response can cause discomfort and visible symptoms in your skin. Stress-related changes in blood flow can contribute to sensations of pruritus or itching. Itching can lead to scratching, further irritating the skin.
Overall, each of your body systems has a unique reaction to stress. Attention to the function of stress in your illnesses can improve treatment outcomes and help prevent or delay long- term disease. As with any feelings of being unwell, always confirm with an appointment with your medical provider of choice.
124 | May 2025
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