Some people find that they keep getting sick. Potential causes of frequent sickness include stress and lack of sleep. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the likelihood of a person becoming ill. Stress is a part of everyday life for most people. However, chronic stress persists over time and can adversely affect health.
Over time, persistent stress can contributeto the development of several chronic health conditions. These conditions range from heart disease to depression.
Chronic stress can also cause a range of symptoms, including:
- headaches
- irritability
- fatigue
- attention problems
- difficulty sleeping
- digestive issues
- rapid, disorganized thoughts
- frequent infections and illness
Dealing with chronic stress involves identifying and tackling the leading causes of stress, which can be challenging and may require significant life changes, such as finding a different job or ending an existing relationship.Some other methods of stress reduction include:
exercise
mindfulness meditation
a healthful diet
talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Learn more about natural ways to reduce stress here.
Many disorders can affect the immune system, which is a collection of organs, tissues, and cells that work together to defend the body against infection and disease. Several problems can occur with the immune system, and these may be due to:
congenital abnormalities
a disease that weakens the immune system, such as HIV
an overactive immune system, which may cause allergic reactions
a fault that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue, such as an autoimmune disorder
It is possible to get sick regularly when the immune system is not functioning correctly. The reason for this is that the body is unable to fight off germs, such as bacteria, properly.
If an infection occurs, it can take longer than usual to recover. It is possible to acquire another illness during this time, which may cause a constant feeling of being unwell.
It will be necessary to treat any disease affecting the immune system, and this will usually involve different types of medication.
Many manufacturers make products that they claim can boost the immune system, but it is very difficult to promote its activity. Drinking a particular type of tea or taking supplements will not affect its functioning. Leading a healthful lifestyle is the best way to support the immune system. Doing this may include:
eating a nutritious diet
exercising regularly
avoiding triggers of stress where possible
getting enough sleep
avoiding tobacco
abstaining from alcohol or drinking it in moderation
achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Sleep plays an important role in health.
The body uses its time asleep to recover and rest to prepare for the next day. Not getting enough sleep can disrupt this process and have consequences for the next day. Sleep deprivation can cause:
- irritability
- difficulty processing thoughts
- inability to concentrate
- drowsiness
- microsleeps, which are episodes of briefly falling asleep while awake
- feelings of depression and anxiety
Over time, sleep deprivation can have more serious consequences. It is possible for sleep deprivation to increase the risk of:
- obesity
- diabetes
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- depression
- weakened immune system
Anxiety disorders are a group of common mental health conditions that affect about 19.1 percent of adults in the United States each year. There are several types of anxiety disorder, but they share the same primary symptom of a state of excessive worry or panic.
Anxiety disorders can affect the body in several ways that may contribute to recurring sickness. For example, anxiety disorders can cause:
- fatigue
- muscle tension
- difficulty concentrating
- sweating
- heart palpitations, or rapid heartbeat
- trembling
- shortness of breath
- irritability
Over extended periods, an anxiety disorder can also lead to physical health complications. For example, people with anxiety disorders have a higher risk of heart disease and early death.
Many different treatments are available for anxiety disorders. Talking therapies, such as CBT, are one option. Antidepressants, beta-blockers, or other medications can help with the symptoms of anxiety too. Research also shows that engaging in mindfulness meditation or physical activitycan benefit people with anxiety disorders