There are two types of stress: long-term and short-term. Surprisingly enough, research suggests that short-term stress can have a positive effect on our immune system. Short-term stress can increase transfer activity of infection-fighting cells, called lymphocytes, from our blood to our skin. This increased activity may aid in blocking infection and improve wound healing.
Long-term stress, however, can decrease certain activities of our immune system. Natural "killer cells", or cells that attack viruses and certain tumors, have been shown by research to be suppressed by chronic or long-term stress. Stress can also lead to increased inflammation, disease pathogenesis (the production and development of disease), autoimmune diseases, an increased susceptibility to diseases and infections, and weaker wound healing.
Short-Term Stress Examples:
Short-Term Stress Examples:
- Finals
- Motor Vehicle Collisions
- Job Interview
- Ongoing marital conflict
- Divorce
- Strain at work
Reference List
- How stress affects the body. Stress Management: Approaches For Preventing & Reducing Stress (2011) [serial online]. January 2011;:33-38. Available from: Consumer Health Complete - EBSCOhost, Ipswich, MA. Accessed July 28, 2013
- Ganz F. Tend and Befriend in the Intensive Care Unit. Critical Care Nurse [serial online]. June 2012;32(3):25-34. Available from: Consumer Health Complete - EBSCOhost, Ipswich, MA. Accessed July 28, 2013.
Chill Out!
Feeling a bit stressed out? Check out my personal stress soother or some great resources and tips to check out:
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