Stress is the body’s response to conflicts or situations, both internal and external, which disturb or interfere with the normal balance of our lives. Virtually all of the body’s systems, including the digestive system, cardiovascular system, nervous system and immune system, make adjustments in response to stress.
Our bodies release numerous hormones and other chemicals in response to stress. The acute stress response may be beneficial or protective, such as the body’s response to infections, or the "fight-or-flight response" in response to fear or danger. Though the exact mechanisms are not known, prolonged stress may be more harmful to the body.
Many experts believe stress is not a cause of allergies, but a triggering or aggravating factor. For example, many patients who suffer from eczema will describe exacerbations linked to emotional stress. Children with asthma and psychological stress tend to have greater numbers of hospital admissions for asthma and require higher doses of steroids for airway control. Supporting the role of stress in disease processes, several studies have also demonstrated that behavioral interventions to reduce stress can positively affect the immune system with reduced asthma exacerbations. These interventions may include relaxation techniques, stress management techniques, conditioning, yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional written health information, please contact the Health Information Center at the Cleveland Clinic 216.444.3771 or toll-free 800.223.2273 extension 43771 or visit www.clevelandclinic.org/health/. This document was last reviewed on: 1/26/2005
