What impact does chronic stress have on the body?

Chronic stress has a profound impact on the body, primarily by leading to high blood pressure and a weakened immune response. When an individual experiences prolonged stress, the body's fight-or-flight response is activated continuously, which results in elevated levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones play crucial roles in various bodily functions, but when persistently elevated due to ongoing stress, they contribute to detrimental health effects.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a direct consequence of this prolonged stress response. The continuous increase in heart rate and constriction of blood vessels, driven by stress hormones, leads to elevated blood pressure levels over time. This can strain the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of heart disease or stroke.

Additionally, chronic stress has been shown to impair the immune system. Stress hormones can inhibit the production of certain immune cells and cytokines, leading to a weakened immune response. This leaves the body more vulnerable to infections, slower healing processes, and even potentially increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the effects of chronic stress: it does not promote faster recovery from ailments, as recovery is often hampered by chronic stress; it does not increase metabolic rate and energy levels sustainably, as prolonged stress can lead to