Blog 5 Ways Anxiety Effects Your Body

5 Ways Anxiety Effects Your Body

young white male feeling the body effects caused by anxiety

We all have some anxiety from time to time. It can be a healthy response when we face an immediate risk. However, we are not meant to stay anxious for extended periods of time. While it may be more recognizable from changes in behavior, chronic anxiety effects your body in some significant ways. It can quickly take its toll on your physical health when left unchecked.

Below are a few of the ways it can impact your body:

Immune System

When your body is under the chronic stress of anxiety, your immune system may boost to protect you from any threats. But if it remains in an elevated state for too long, it can weaken over time and eventually leave you more susceptible to infections or illness. You may become more susceptible to common illnesses like colds or the flu.

Cardiovascular System

Anxiety can cause you to experience a faster heart rate or even chest pain. It can eventually lead to things like high blood pressure or heart disease.

Excretory And Digestive Systems

Loss of appetite is not uncommon with anxiety. Some people also experience stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, or other digestive issues.

Central Nervous System

Chronic anxiety can trigger the regular release of stress hormones, which can then lead to an increase in headaches, dizziness, and depression. The extra adrenaline and cortisol for example, might be intended to help you overcome a threat. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can have lasting detrimental effects to your health.

Respiratory Systems

Anxiety can lead to rapid and shallow breathing. This can place people with asthma or COPD at additional risk.

Learning To Manage Your Anxiety

Anxiety effects the body in some significant ways. The pandemic and other recent stressors have increased the prevalence of anxiety and made coping increasingly complex and difficult. When you can properly manage your anxiety, you can keep some of the physical issues associated with the disorder more in check. Speaking with a qualified therapist can also help you to manage your symptoms. If you’d like to know more or talk with a licensed therapist, contact us today!