Publication Date
12-2022
School
School of Health Sciences
Major
Biology: Biomedical Sciences
Keywords
stress, chronic stress, cortisol, HPA
Disciplines
Physiological Processes
Recommended Citation
Saia, Julia, "Worried Sick: Understanding the Implications of Stress on a Physiological Level" (2022). Senior Honors Theses. 1249.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/1249
Abstract
Stress is prevalent among many individuals in today’s society. A literature review was conducted to investigate the physiological effects of stress, including the biomarkers of stress and how these interact with various body systems. The stress response is a protective mechanism to prepare the body to adequately respond to a perceived threat. However, when this response is prolonged, it begins to have a maladaptive effect on the body and can cause more harm than good. This literature review sought to compile what is known regarding the general effects of chronic stress and its impact on the nervous, immune, digestive, and cardiovascular systems.
