How does chronic stress impact the body?

Chronic stress significantly impacts the body by triggering a variety of physiological responses that can lead to serious health issues. Prolonged exposure to stress can cause the body to remain in a constant state of heightened alertness, which affects several systems, primarily the cardiovascular and immune systems.

One of the key effects of chronic stress is hypertension. The persistent release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, can increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels, ultimately leading to elevated blood pressure. Over time, this puts individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases, which can include heart attacks and strokes.

Additionally, chronic stress can weaken the immune response. When the body is under constant stress, it prioritizes responding to the immediate stressor, draining resources away from the immune system. This can lead to a reduced ability to fight off infections and may contribute to the development of autoimmune disorders.

Considering these impacts on both the cardiovascular and immune systems, it's clear that chronic stress is detrimental to overall health and can precipitate a range of health issues, which makes this answer the most accurate reflection of the consequences of chronic stress.