Harvard Extension School Calendar

Harvard Extension School Calendar

Harvard Extension School Calendar

Whether it’s a hard day at work, a long line of traffic, or a disagreement with a significant other, humans suffer from stress virtually everyday. And when stress becomes a factor, the body reacts instinctively, producing hormones that create the “fight or flight” response.

These hormones — epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol — increase heart rate, trigger glucose release, and reduce immune response, according to the National Institutes of Health and many other sources.

The physical reactions to stress include headache, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, rapid heartbeat, nausea, cold hands, lack of concentration, difficulty sleeping, certain food cravings, and angry outbursts. It also can affect memory, cognition, and attentiveness. It’s no wonder too much stress can be at the bottom of long-term health issues.