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7 Signs Of Liver Damage

March 21, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Liver damage is a significant health risk. But before we look at why, let’s open with a discussion of exactly what this vital organ does.

A properly functioning liver performs these functions:

Cleanses blood by metabolizing alcohol, drugs (prescription and recreational); and neutralizing poisonous substances.
Manufactures essential body proteins, including those that prevent blood-clotting, open pathways for nutrient delivery to the blood, and proteins that ward off infection.
Produces cholesterol; converting it into essential substances used by the body.
Regulates energy supply by manufacturing, storing, and delivering glucose to the body and brain.
Regulates the balance of hormones, including those of the adrenal and thyroid glands.

The potential causes of liver damage are numerous and include heredity (i.e., genetic predisposition), long-term liver diseases (ex: cirrhosis), and prolonged exposure to toxic substances.

It is important to understand potential signs of liver damage in order to preserve our health and wellbeing.

Here are seven possible signs of an impaired liver:

Liver disease rates are steadily increasing over the years. According to National statistics in the UK, liver diseases have been ranked as the fifth most common cause of death. Liver diseases are recognized as the second leading cause of mortality amongst all digestive diseases in the US. – World Gastroenterology Organization

1. Fatigue

Various research has concluded that chronic fatigue and exhaustion are the most common symptoms of liver damage. Medical professionals speculate that liver-related fatigue and exhaustion is a byproduct of neurochemical changes in the brain and hormonal imbalances.

Exacerbating the feelings of fatigue and exhaustion are elevated levels of toxic byproducts in the blood, which an impaired liver cannot properly eliminate.

2. Dry or irritated skin

Irritated and itchy skin that seems to persist is another potential indication of liver damage. To be healthy, our skin requires moisture via transmission of fluids within the body. When this fluid is not adequately supplied, it is not uncommon for the skin to take on a different appearance. This includes red hands or feet, jaundice, or inexplicable spotting (dark or light) in certain areas.

3. Abdominal pain

If the liver is damaged, it is common to feel pain around the abdominal area. Patients often describe this pain as “stabbing” or “throbbing” – a symptom often relieved only through proper treatment of the underlying issue.

Long-term use of some types of over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription (Rx) medications can result in long-term liver damage. Those experiencing persistent abdominal pain of the stabbing or throbbing variety – and have used OTC or Rx medications for a substantial period – should visit a physician for evaluation.

4. Nausea or vomiting

As mentioned prior, one of the liver’s primary functions is to detoxify and help expel any toxic substances from the body. When the liver’s detoxification function is impaired, a number of problems can surface, including sudden changes in normal digestion and metabolism.

The liver is a large organ within the digestive system. Therefore, any liver-related condition can manifest into digestive problems. Nausea and vomiting frequently occur due to the accumulation of toxins that the liver cannot eradicate.

5. Bruising

Among the liver’s most important roles is to assist in the production of necessary protein enzymes. One classification of protein enzymes helps to prevent blood clots. When this blood-clotting mechanism is impaired, changes to the skin’s appearance are common.

A consequence of this, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, is this:

“When the liver slows the production of or stops producing the proteins needed for blood clotting, a person will bruise or bleed easily.”

6. Abdominal swelling

According to the Mayo Clinic, liver damage disrupts the normal flow of blood to the organ, which increases pressure in the surrounding veins. These “surrounding veins” include those responsible for transporting blood from the spleen and intestines to the liver. Disruption of this process causes blood pressure levels to spike – a condition known as portal hypertension.

Portal hypertension causes ascites, the accumulation of fluid around the abdomen. Ascites may also arise from the liver’s inability to make other blood proteins.

7. Jaundice

Of course, liver problems can cause discoloration of the eyes and skin. This discoloration happens because of the buildup of a bile pigment called bilirubin, which cannot be properly be disposed of.

Yellowish hueing of the skin or eyes is the condition jaundice. Besides altering the eye’s appearance, jaundice can cause other symptoms including darkening of the urine, full-body itching, and cognitive impairment.

The great news is that the liver is a highly adaptive and resilient organ when treated, and is often capable of healing itself. Under the guidance of a medical professional, most liver-related illnesses receive a positive prognosis.

Thus, it is wise to consult with a medical professional if any of these symptoms persist. As with most medical conditions, the earlier that the underlying cause is determined, the more streamlined and efficient any treatment.

References:
Fleet. A. (2013, June 19). 10 Telling Symptoms of Liver Damage. Retrieved March 18, 2017, from http://www.activebeat.com/your-health/10-telling-symptoms-of-liver-damage/?streamview=all
Laparoscopic.md. (2015). The Role of The Liver In Digestion. Retrieved March 18, 2017, from http://www.laparoscopic.md/digestion/liver
Mayo Clinic. (2016, April 06). Cirrhosis: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved March 18, 2017, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cirrhosis/symptoms-causes/dxc-20187350
Mayo Clinic. (2014, July 15). Diseases and Conditions: Liver disease. Retrieved March 18, 2017, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/liver-problems/basics/symptoms/con-20025300
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2014, April). Cirrhosis: What is cirrhosis? Retrieved March 18, 2017, from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/cirrhosis
World Gastroenterology Organisation. Global Burden of Liver Disease: A True Burden on Health Sciences and Economies. Retrieved March 18, 2017, from http://www.worldgastroenterology.org/publications/e-wgn/e-wgn-expert-point-of-view-articles-collection/global-burden-of-liver-disease-a-true-burden-on-health-sciences-and-economies

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

6 Simple Rules Successful Women Follow

March 21, 2017 by Power of Positivity

When you think of successful women, Oprah Winfrey is (or should be) at the very top of the list. Consider a few of her accomplishments:

The Oprah Winfrey Show, nationally syndicated for 25 years, is the highest-rated talk show in history.
She’s the richest living African American, with a net worth of nearly $3 billion.
She’s donated over $300 million to various causes (she’s considered the greatest philanthropist in American history by many).
She is the only black multi-billionaire in North America.
She’s a 2013 recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States.
She has honorary Doctorate degrees from two Ivy League Schools: Harvard and Yale.

“Don’t worry about being successful but work toward being significant and the success will naturally follow.” – Oprah Winfrey

So, yeah, Oprah has accomplished pretty much everything. It’s natural, then, that we commence a “woman and success” article featuring the great businesswoman, philanthropist, and overall tremendous human being.

What makes Oprah’s success so astounding is her early lot in life; by rising above circumstances that few others are capable of. She was immediately at a disadvantage, being born into poverty to a single mother in the deep south. Winfrey was a victim of sexual molestation during her childhood and adolescent years, becoming pregnant at the age of 14. Tragically, her son died in infancy.

This article, no matter how well-deserved, is not about Ms. Winfrey. Well, not by intent, as Oprah contributed to many of the tenets of success listed below. Instead, this article is about rules of success applicable to women.

Rules the Most Successful Women Usually Follow

We present six simple rules of success for women to follow:

1. Understand the next right move

This advice isn’t the same type of rhetoric too often spewed by “motivational speakers” or their ilk. Instead, to “understand the next right move” is allowing your mind to become still without consideration to what or what doesn’t “need” to be done.

Oprah says something poignant in this regard: “Make the next right move, and the next right move, because you know that your life is bigger than that one moment.”

Forget about trying to accomplish what others think you “should,” choosing instead to follow your heart and intuition.

2. Successful people prepare for the “moment to come.”

Regardless of what may have been perceived as an obstacle in life, we all can drive on – and to forget the misfortunes of the past. Those who believe in destiny will brush aside life’s obstructions and ultimately move onward.

Things that have happened in your life – good or bad – have prepared you for exactly what you need to be at the exact moment you’re experiencing.

“Planning” is an anomaly to this method of thought. “Consciousness” and awareness are preparatory advantages; not strategy or meticulousness.

3. Forget your mistakes.

Sincerely…forget every mistake you’ve ever made. Your future is not – and never will be – defined by your past. Don’t limit your capabilities simply because of some mistake. Everyone makes them. It’s how you choose to respond to said mistakes that determine success or failure.

Don’t hold grudges, and don’t give up your power. You’re better than that…and only you decide what transpires.

4. Align your personality and gifts with a real purpose

We see it every day, whether we realize it or not; people that have succumbed to the pressure within themselves, society, family, etc., to settle for a “normal” way of life (e.g. ” a job”) for which they were never suited for.

Forget that type of bologna. Nobody will ever, ever, bring forth a persona and set of abilities that match your own. Empower yourself, follow your passion, and forget “predestination” while allowing things to unfold as they may.

5. Overlook limitations

As far as we’ve come as a society, women are (sadly) not perceived as “capable” as men. Think about this for a second – and realize how dark and disgusting this fact is: We’ve had 45 U.S. Presidents – and not one has been a woman.

Successful women cannot – and will not – be restrained by any perceived “weakness” or limitation; they refuse to be a “subject” to such conspicuous disenfranchisement. Ursula Burns, another powerful African-American and the CEO of Xerox, put it this way:

“We all need to be more impatient with the status quo…we need to shift the emphasis in our thinking…from why hunger and poverty and injustice exist in the world to how they can be eliminated…In other words, we all need to be a little more impatient.”

Women must be persistent when attempting to achieve success. They must reach out and grab the opportunities that come along. There’s no shame in doing so…men have been doing it for countless years.

6. Remain grounded

We all possess gifts and limitations, and we all have different aspirations. We may even experience some confusion to what such “aspirations” are or ought not to be. The (not-so-simple) solution is to remain true to yourself.

Forget about everyone else; forget how those around you perceive you. Understand what is important to you, continue to be humble, and keep both yourself and others in mind.

If you achieve some modicum of success, do not gloat. Understand the importance of humility – a noble trait lacking in today’s “dog eat dog” world. The beautiful thing is that by maintaining this dignified perspective, more people are willing to follow your guidance.

People will follow you, not out of a need of authority, but of your human approach to how others should be treated. By remaining an equal.

Our society needs women with an unflappable determination to be successful.

5 Signs He Will Never Cheat

March 20, 2017 by Chris Butler

“Most women cheat because they feel emotionally deprived, and men are unfaithful because they feel sexually deprived,” says Tina B. Tessina, Ph.D., psychotherapist and author of Money, Sex and Kids: Stop Fighting About the Three Things That Can Ruin Your Marriage.

Regardless of motive, it turns out that men and women cheat at about the same rate: 19 and 23 percent, respectively. That statistic comes from a University of Indiana study. The study reiterates Dr. Tessina’s assertions:

“The propensity for sexual excitation, or the ease with which one becomes sexually aroused by all kinds of triggers and situations played a bigger role for the men compared to the women, for whom lower relationship happiness and poor compatibility with their spouse or partner in terms of sexual attitudes were more important to the prediction of infidelity.”

Predictably, research also demonstrates those who cheat are untrustworthy in other areas of their lives. In particular, they display dishonesty with their significant other. This sense of mistrust only exacerbates the surfacing of infidelity. “In the wake of an affair, more and more lies come out, and that makes trust very difficult,” says Ian Kerner, Ph.D., a psychotherapist specializing in sex and couples therapy, “It then becomes easy to feel dubious toward your partner in other aspects of like, such as finances or parenting.”

Also, predictably, most marriages end upon discovering an affair – with a divorce rate of about 70 percent. Statistics don’t tell the whole story, obviously. Sadly, an immense amount of emotional harm comes from discovering infidelity to one who’s been cheated on, their children, if any – and, in many cases, emotional harm follows the cheater.

Editorial Note: While the article focuses on signs that a man will not cheat, much of this information may also apply to women. Research shows the similarities between sexes (aside from the root cause) of cheating.

Here are five signs that he will never cheat:

“It might sound ordinary for a woman to find out her husband’s cheating on her, but not if you’re the woman and it’s your husband.” – Melissa Bank, bestselling author of The Girls’ Guide to Hunting and Fishing

1. He’s honest in everything else he does

If your man tends to keep his word in every other aspect of your lives together, he can be considered a trustworthy mate. If he does, even in the most minute way, be dishonest, he’ll own up to it and face the consequences like a man. A man with an ingrained sense of integrity is far less likely to sneak off with another woman.

2. He keeps you informed about everything

If you’re with the type of guy who takes pleasure in keeping you up to date about what’s going on outside of the relationship, there’s little to no chance that he’s seeing someone else. The man you’re with is the type that not only respects the fact you should be included in the “finer details” of his life but takes pride in such.

3. He is a “busy body.”

When your man juggles work, family (especially with kids), and other known responsibilities (e.g. school, softball, etc.), the chances of him even having the time to see someone else is an improbability. The only plausible explanation is his not finding it necessary to sleep. That’s because he spends almost every other waking moment dealing with what’s on his plate.

4. They’ve cut all known ties to former flames

According to eHarmony, 21 percent of men and 32 percent of women who cheat acted on a “sexual temptation…with a former boyfriend/girlfriend.”

Given the proliferation of social media, connecting with past lovers is much easier than ever. However, if your man keeps his “female business” efforts directed towards you – and you only – there’s probably no relationship hazard worth investigating.

5. He’s selfless

Here’s the thing: a good-hearted, honest, genuine man cares more deeply about those he loves (even likes) than himself. Should the man you’re with stop, pull out his wallet, and give a few bucks to someone down on their luck, they almost assuredly don’t have the heart to wound someone so deeply. Indeed, they don’t have the hard heart that cheating inherently requires.

10 Inner Thoughts of A Narcissist You Should Know

March 19, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Chances are that at one point or another, you’ve met someone who’s a narcissist. After all, narcissism is not all that uncommon – at just over 6 percent of the U.S. population.

Actual narcissism is a real personality disorder called Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or NPD. NPD is characterized by a need for constant admiration, feeling overly important, and a near absence of empathy of others.

This article focuses on the inner-workings of a narcissist’s mind…what makes them “tick.” With that said, let’s get started.

Here are 10 projections from the mind of a narcissist:

1. “I require constant attention…why am I not getting it?”

Narcissists are incapable of managing feelings about their self-worth; as such, they depend on others to provide a sense of worthiness. Psychologists have two terms for this abnormal dependency: “emotional supply: and “narcissistic supply.” In actuality, narcissists often feel empty and defective, carry these feelings with them, and are always looking for someone to “resupply” their insatiable need for approval.

2. “I need to take care of and focus on only myself.”

This one is just plain ole’ self-centeredness taken to an extreme. Narcissists care about themselves, always put their needs first, and cannot fathom the terms “sacrifice” or “compromise.” While self-centered people can, and often do, change their perspective on what’s important (especially at they mature), narcissists will likely maintain an excessively self-centered mindset for the rest of their lives.

3. “Time to move on from this relationship…”

Question: how can someone commit to another when they only care about themselves? Answer: they can’t. Narcissists have a voracious appetite for “pick me up’s,” and this applies to relationships too. Dating a narcissist always seems to follow a predetermined route: they meet someone who caters to their constant emotional needs; initial feelings of excitement subside, and they’ll walk away or find someone else. The notion that they’ve just badly hurt someone never surfaces in their mind.

4. “I’m right, you’re wrong, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

In the real world, most people can and will acknowledge when they’ve been wrong; it’s tough but manageable. Narcissists are incapable of admitting when they’re wrong, even when presented with fact after fact. Why? Because of their misplaced sense of superiority; a “false self,” utterly incapable of admitting when someone’s correct, and when they’re not.

5. “Why am I in a constant battle with myself? It’s nothing…”

“There’s a long-standing belief…that narcissists actually feel great about themselves…Savvier researchers recognized that the emperor had no clothes…They hooked the narcissists up to a lie detector (fake) then asked them how they felt about themselves. Suddenly, their high self-esteem vanished,” explains Dr. Craig Malkin.

Narcissism is an enigmatic condition, and this fact applies when evaluating the condition and one’s predispositions, such as confidence. Most experts believe that narcissists have developed a coping mechanism – a rewiring of the brain – that permits them to exhibit confidence despite deep-rooted fears of failure of weakness.

6. “Why does everyone feel so bad for him/her?”

As mentioned above, narcissists do not contemplate any pain inflicted on others. Similarly, they do not consider other’s opinions, thoughts, or feelings that conflict with their own.

One individual in a former relationship with a narcissist described her experience: “My partner would just hurt my feelings when things were going well. When I would question him about it, he would make up excuses and tell me I’m wrong for feeling the way I did…”

7. “I deserve this…why don’t I have it?”

It’s quite clear by now that narcissists don’t possess a mature mindset. When it comes to wanting something, a narcissist will often behave like a toddler who never quite grasped that they’re not at the center of the world.

Another quick real-world example:

Dan tried to convince his wife that he shouldn’t have to warm up dinner himself when he gets home late, so she shouldn’t go out at night with the kids.

Stay classy, Dan.

8. “My life is boring… time to stir something up…”

The phrase “emotional roller coaster” is perhaps the best way to describe how others feel when dealing with a narcissist. The reason that others bear the brunt of a narcissist’s antics is that they (surprise, surprise!) lack emotional intelligence. In a way, the stirred-up feelings of someone on the receiving end of a narcissist’s tomfoolery reflects the “soaring and crashing” of the narcissist’s inner emotional world.

9. “Why didn’t he/she call me back?”

This may actually be the best example of a narcissist’s obscure thought process to dating and relationships. As mentioned, they’ll quickly dismiss someone who they’ve been in a relationship with and not give the person a second thought.

Here’s what one therapist said about narcissists and dating/relationships: “…they do get rejected quite a lot. When this happens…they feel depressed, agitated and worthless. They forget about all the women they themselves have run from and only remember the ones where they didn’t get a second date.”

10. “Who are you to shame me?”

The narcissistic have a great brew of emotions stirring underneath their seemingly assured appearance. They’ve developed a delicate personality; so familiar to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity that they don’t feel disappointed, embarrassed, or shamed by someone else’s criticism.

Instead of acting like an adult, they’ll become distant and avoidant. Sometimes, they’ll become critical themselves and display outward hostility.

“Narcissism falls along the axis of what psychologists call personality disorders, one of a group that includes antisocial, dependent histrionic, avoidant and borderline personalities. But by most measures, narcissism is one of the worst, if only because the narcissists themselves are so clueless.” – Jeffrey Kluger, author of The Narcissist Next Door

References:
Kreger, R. (2017). Narcissistic Traits. Retrieved March 10, 2017, from https://www.bpdcentral.com/narcissistic-disorder/hallmarks-of-npd/
Grey, S. (2015, May). Inside the Mind of a Narcissist: What’s Really Go On. Retrieved March 10, 2017, from http://esteemology.com/inside-the-mind-of-a-narcissist-whats-really-go-on/
Malkin, C., Dr. (2017). Proof, Once and for All, That Narcissist Are Deeply Insecure. Retrieved March 10, 2017, from http://www.drcraigmalkin.com/blog/proof-once-and-for-all-that-narcissist-are-deeply-insecure

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

5 Things To Always Keep Secret About Your Relationship

March 19, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Some things about your relationship are meant to be between you and your partner.

“We have to recognize that there cannot be relationships unless there is commitment, unless there is loyalty, unless there is love, patience, persistence.” – Cornel West, Breaking Bread: Insurgent Black Intellectual Life

Most of us who have been part of an intimate relationship have discussed some details within our social circle. Some of this dialogue is fun and harmless, yet certain parts of a relationship shouldn’t be discussed with anyone besides your partner.

First, some relationship topics are entirely inappropriate to talk about, even with a ‘BFF’ or some other perceivably trustworthy third party. Second, words can quickly spread, and with the prolific use of social media, your “private matters” can quickly become public.

Also, consider how you would feel if your partner discussed private, intimate matters with someone else. Intimate relationships are unique because of the intimacy – a physical and emotional connection between two people. Not three, not four. Two.

Here are five things to always keep private within a healthy relationship:

1. Anything sex-related

Talking about anything relating to sex should be considered a big no-no. Examples of such topics include: how often you do (or don’t) have sex, sexual fantasies, problems in the bedroom, and so forth.

Conversing with someone else about your sexual experiences robs the relationship of its intimacy. No matter how big or small such details may be, conversing with anyone else about sex-related topics besides your partner is an act of deception.

If sexual problems are creating distance or otherwise causing friction in the relationship, therapeutic outlets exist that can help to resolve such issues. Furthermore, experts such as relationship therapists and counselors are bound by confidentiality agreements to keep all related matters private.

2. Any perceived flaws

When a man is made to feel less like a man, or when a woman is made to feel less like a woman, they’re deeply hurt – and relationship problems can escalate quickly. None of us are perfect, and being part of a relationship cannot change this universal fact.

Robin Williams, playing the part of a therapist in the movie Good Will Hunting, said to a troubled Matt Damon’s character experiencing a relationship conundrum:

“My wife used to fart in her sleep. [Queue a cracked up Damon and Williams]. She had all sorts of wonderful idiosyncrasies…Christ, she’s been dead two years and that’s what I remember…That’s what I miss the most. The little idiosyncrasies that only I know about; that’s what made her my wife…You’re not perfect, sport…and I’ll save you the suspense, neither is she…The question is whether or not you’re perfect for each other.”

Epic scene, yes; but a powerful (albeit, hilarious) reminder of what we should value in our partner – and how shortcomings are a matter of perspective.

Regardless of your feelings, these “flaws” are best kept under wraps.

3. Fights or heated arguments

Aside from altercations that involve physical or emotional abuse, relationship “fights” shouldn’t be discussed with others. Your close friend may help “solve” the issue to a certain extent, but the problem lies – it takes your partner out of the equation.

Resolving continuing altercations requires communication with the appropriate parties; Namely, you, your partner, and (possibly) a counselor or therapist.

4. Money troubles

Oh, yes, no “relationship secrets” article would be complete without mentioning money issues. Or – in this case – not mentioning money issues.

First, it’s essential to understand that financial troubles within a relationship are widespread. According to a 2015 survey by SunTrust Bank, “Some 35 percent of all respondents experiencing relationship stress said money was the primary cause of friction…Among respondents with relationship stress aged 44 to 54, 44 percent said money was the primary cause.”

In other words, you are not alone in your money troubles. As much stress as money-related issues may induce, they’re solvable given the necessary knowledge. If a prompt resolution is essential, seek the advice of a financial adviser. Of course, refrain from droning on about problems that are nobody else’s business. They probably won’t help, anyway.

5. Anything said in confidence

At the risk of sounding cliché, trust is the backbone of any relationship. Most of what happens in a relationship has some “cure,” but betraying your partner’s trust is perhaps the most egregious of offenses – and is, unsurprisingly, difficult to rebound from.

This is precisely why you should never, ever reveal his or her innermost thoughts and feelings –those that he or she trusts with you and only you with.

References:
Holland, K. (2015, February 04). Fighting with your spouse? It’s probably about this. Retrieved March 07, 2017, from http://www.cnbc.com/2015/02/04/money-is-the-leading-cause-of-stress-in-relationships.html
SunTrust Banks, Inc. (2015, February 04). Love and Money: People Say They Save, Partner Spends, According to SunTrust Survey. Retrieved March 07, 2017, from http://investors.suntrust.com/news/news-details/2015/Love-and-Money-People-Say-They-Save-Partner-Spends-According-to-SunTrust-Survey/default.aspx
Sweet Imperfections – Good Will Hunting. (2011, March 26). Retrieved March 07, 2017, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hjm4a1-ratc

Scientists Explain 8 Things That Happen To Your Body When You’re Overstressed

March 19, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Stress manifests when someone experiences excessive levels of emotional or mental pressure. This emotional or mental pressure creates distress – a harmful psychological state that can damage both mind and body. When you feel overstressed, you reach a hypersensitive state that makes you unwell, physically and mentally.

It is not hyperbole to say that stress can kill you. This fact and the near-universal presence of stress in daily life do not bode well for individual and public health.

Statistics The Reveal an Overstressed Society

Consider some of these alarming statistics:

77% of people regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress.
73% of people regularly experience psychological symptoms caused by stress.
33% of people feel “they are living with extreme stress.”
48% of individuals report lying awake at night due to stress.
48% of people cite stress as harming their personal and professional lives.

The human body consists of 78 organs in total, divided into thirteen “major” organ systems. Of all organs, five are vital: the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs. Why do we mention this? Because stress negatively affects them all, particularly the vital organs.

This article discusses stress’s impact on ten major organ systems. We’ll also provide some practical ways of destressing the body and mind (including the organs, of course)!

This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Feel Overstressed

“Stress is an ignorant state. It believes that everything is an emergency. Nothing is that important.” – Natalie Goldberg.

1. An Overstressed Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system consists of our heart and blood vessels and is a potentially life-threatening target for chronic high stress. Cardiovascular disease accounts for approximately 610,000 deaths every year in the United States – or 1 in every four fatalities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is the leading cause of death for men and women.

Moreover, research continues to link cardiovascular disease and stress. The presence of stress, particularly combined with other risky behaviors (e.g., smoking, alcohol abuse), is thought to increase one’s risk drastically to this disease.

2. Nervous System

The brain and spinal cord are “the central division “ of the nervous system. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) “has a direct role in physical response to stress); which is divided into the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

Stress starts ends and everything in between within the brain. Stress initiates the “fight or flight” response. It releases stress hormones that spread throughout the body, causing “the heart to beat faster, respiration to increase, blood vessels in the arms to dilate,” and other side effects.

In short, chronic stress is not suitable for the brain.

3. Respiratory System

The bronchi, larynx, lungs, nose, pharynx, and trachea form the respiratory system. The brain’s fight or flight response causes one to breathe harder, sometimes to the point that one experiences hyperventilation.

In fact, panic attacks, a sudden feeling of acute and disabling anxiety, are a common medical condition in those with chronic stress.

4. An Overstressed Musculoskeletal System

Our bones, joints, and muscles make up the musculoskeletal system. In fact, stress has a way of causing our bodies to tense up. In an acute state, this tension releases, and “that is that,” as they say. However, chronic stress “causes the muscles in the body to be in a more or less constant state of guardedness;” chronic painful conditions and musculoskeletal disorders can manifest in this state.

5. Reproductive System

Our reproductive system encompasses the gonads, accessory organs (e.g., prostate, uterus), Genitalia, mammary glands, and genital ducts (male).

For both men and women, the nervous system influences the reproductive system. In men, the ANS produces testosterone and activates the sympathetic nervous system to create arousal. Stress adversely affects women across various functions: menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and sexual desire.

During times of stress, the brain releases cortisol. Over time, this may disrupt the normal function of anatomic reproductive components.

6. An Overstressed Endocrine System

The adrenals, hypothalamus, pancreas, parathyroid, pineal gland, pituitary gland, ovaries, testes, and thymus make up the endocrine system.

Once again, the brain initiates the release of stress hormones, cortisol and epinephrine, via the hypothalamus. The adrenals near the kidneys produce cortisol and epinephrine; this heightens the body’s stress awareness levels.

The liver produces glucose during the abovementioned process, which generally provides aid during fight or flight mode. However, this excess blood sugar could lead to Type 2 diabetes in vulnerable demographics, including the obese and some races (e.g., Native Americans).

Thus, managing stress is vital to maintaining an average blood sugar level. Besides that, you will potentially avoid diabetes in certain situations.

7. Integumentary System

This system includes the hair, nails, and skin. The integumentary system plays an essential role in maintaining the body’s equilibrium, “including protection, temperature regulation, sensory reception, biochemical synthesis, and (nutrient) absorption.”

You must also maintain your other internal systems for the integumentary system to function correctly. Stress disrupts the routine operation of this system. As a result, one may experience decreased blood flow to the skin, skin inelasticity, destabilization of glandular functions, and disrupted tissue restoration.

8. An Overstressed Digestive System

The digestive system includes primary organs – the esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestines; and accessory organs – the rectum, appendix, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Consuming more food, alcohol, and nicotine can result in acid reflux or heartburn. In fact, this is a common problem for those with chronic stress. Stress also increases stomach sensitivity, which can worsen the symptoms mentioned above.

Chronic stress may lead to severe stomach pain, ulcers, and other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Final Thoughts: Here are three ways to combat stress!

Managing stress properly is essential to preventing and treating any actual or potential medical conditions. Below are some effective methods of stress reduction, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Lifestyle changes: stress reduction and positive changes to one’s lifestyle are inseparable. Improving overall health and managing stress is often accomplished by regular exercise, eating a well-balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco consumption.
Relaxation methods: UMMC is an academic institution with an acute focus on relaxation methods and alternative therapies. Their recommendations include acupuncture, deep breathing, meditation, muscle relaxation, massage therapy, and biofeedback.
Herbal remedies: These include aromatherapy or the consumption of valerian – an herb with soothing qualities. Also, consider trying kava – a root that effectively reduces anxiety and stress. (Note: herbal therapies are not well-tolerated by all. Past and current medical history, herbs, supplements, and other homeopathic medications may cause serious side effects. Of course, it is advisable to consult with a physician or schedule a physical examination.)

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Here are seven possible signs of an impaired liver:

1. Fatigue

2. Dry or irritated skin

3. Abdominal pain

4. Nausea or vomiting

5. Bruising

6. Abdominal swelling

7. Jaundice

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Rules the Most Successful Women Usually Follow

1. Understand the next right move

2. Successful people prepare for the “moment to come.”

3. Forget your mistakes.

4. Align your personality and gifts with a real purpose

5. Overlook limitations

6. Remain grounded

Here are five signs that he will never cheat:

1. He’s honest in everything else he does

2. He keeps you informed about everything

3. He is a “busy body.”

4. They’ve cut all known ties to former flames

5. He’s selfless

Here are 10 projections from the mind of a narcissist:

1. “I require constant attention…why am I not getting it?”

2. “I need to take care of and focus on only myself.”

3. “Time to move on from this relationship…”

4. “I’m right, you’re wrong, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

5. “Why am I in a constant battle with myself? It’s nothing…”

6. “Why does everyone feel so bad for him/her?”

7. “I deserve this…why don’t I have it?”

8. “My life is boring… time to stir something up…”

9. “Why didn’t he/she call me back?”

10. “Who are you to shame me?”

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Here are five things to always keep private within a healthy relationship:

1. Anything sex-related

2. Any perceived flaws

3. Fights or heated arguments

4. Money troubles

5. Anything said in confidence

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Statistics The Reveal an Overstressed Society

This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Feel Overstressed

1. An Overstressed Cardiovascular System

2. Nervous System

3. Respiratory System

4. An Overstressed Musculoskeletal System

5. Reproductive System

6. An Overstressed Endocrine System

7. Integumentary System

8. An Overstressed Digestive System

Final Thoughts: Here are three ways to combat stress!

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