If we want to define stress, we can say the term stress is used to describe the general physical and emotional state that accompanies the stress response.
In common usage, stress refers to two different things:
1. Stressor - a situation or situations that trigger physical and emotional reactions, and
2. Stress response - responses to stressors which include physical changes and behavioral responses
Stress isn't merely nervous tension, and it isn't something to be avoided at all costs. Actually, a moderate level od stress challenges people in a way that promotes optimal performance and well-being. Moderate stress enhances the ability to acquire information and remember daily events.
High level of acute stress can impair learning and memory. Too little stress and individuals are not challenged enough to improve. Too much stress, and the challenges become stressors that can impair physical and emotional health. If a stressor persists or if several stressors occur in succession, general exhaustion results. The offshoot of chronic stress can results in anxiety, depression, insomnia and certain diseases. Although much remains to be learned, it is clear that people who have unresolved chronic stress in their lives or who handle stressors poorly are at risk for a wide range of health problems.
High level of stress over the long term may shrink an area of the brain called the hippocampus.
Your body's ability to naturally maintain a balance between two key hormones produced by the adrenal glands - cortisol (also called hydrocortisone which is responsible for enhancing the body's natural resistance and endurance) and Dehydroepiandrosterone or DHEA (which is a precursor hormone the body converts for different purposes) - is especially important to guard against fatigue and illness.
The cheapest and most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious disease is by washing hands. Yet it is estimated that one of every three people does not wash up hands after using the washroom. Washing your hands thoroughly and often may reduce your chance of getting sick. Use soap and warm running water and...
After a full month of being constantly on the go, this is the perfect time to refocus on you. Everything you set your sights on doing in the coming year should have a built-in measure of pleasure, and that will help you stay on track without struggle. Here are some great ideas to build new habits guaranteed to nourish your body, mind and soul...
WCRF UK recommends limiting consumption of red meat (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoiding processed meats. To reduce your cancer risk, eat no more than 500g (cooked weight) per week of red meats, like beef, pork and lamb, and avoid processed meats such as ham, bacon, salami, hot dogs and some sausages.
If you or someone near you have emergency and professional help is needed, you should go (or call someone to take you) to the nearest emergency room. Emergencies would include: major trauma or injury (like head injury, deep wound, suspected broken bone, severe burn, eye injury, or animal bite), intolerable and uncontrollable pain, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, poisoning or drug overdose, loss of consciousness, seizure, persistent abdominal pain (especially if associated with nausea and vomiting), severe or vorsening reaction to an insect bite or sting, severe reaction to medication (especially if breathing is difficult).
A fever may be an attempt to make the body less hospitable to infectious agents.
Sometimes a single symptom is not cause for concern, but when the symptom is accompanied by other symptoms, the combination suggests a more serious problem. For example, a fever with a stiff neck suggests meningitis.
If your symptom is peculiar and unfamiliar, it is wise to check it with your health care provider. Example include: difficulty swallowing, numbness, weakness, unexplained lumps, changes in mole, problems with vision, blood in sputum, unexplained weight loss, blood in urine or stool.
If your symptom is persistent and lasts longer then expected seek medical advice.Examples for adults include: fever for more than 5 days, a cough lasting longer than 2 weeks, a hoarsness lasting longer than 3 weeks, and sore that doesn't heal within a month.
If your symptom is occurring often or repeatedly, medical evaluation is advised. Examples include recurrent stomach pains, headache and backache.
