Chronic Stress Linked to Cardiovascular and Mental Health Risks

Prolonged stress elevates cortisol and adrenaline, keeping the body in a constant state of readiness. This hormonal surge can raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, and trigger inflammation, raising the risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease and, in severe cases, heart attacks. The immune system also weakens, making infections more likely and slowing recovery. Digestive problems such as irritable‑bowel syndrome, reflux and abdominal pain become more common. Mentally, chronic stress fuels anxiety, irritability, mood swings, and can impair concentration, memory and decision‑making. Harvard Health Publishing expert Robert H. Shmerling notes the cardiovascular danger, while Brown University researcher Judson Brewer explains the nervous‑system strain that sustains perceived threats even without real danger. Both articles underscore the broad, multi‑system impact of sustained stress on overall health.