Oct
14
Written by:
Dr. Cherniawski
10/14/2008 2:49 PM
Stress is a heightened response to routine and out of the ordinary conditions and events in which there are three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Exhaustion can occur from a prolonged upsetting experience, lowered body resistance, or some form of body malfunction. In this final stage, the body overreacts by continuously reacting as if it has to run away or fight.
In the exhaustion stage, the adrenal glands secrete hormones including cortisol, adrenaline, epinephrine, and DHEA. Continuous secretion of these hormones lead to serious health problems such as digestive problems, sinus and allergy problems, lowered immunity, trouble sleeping, fatigue, abnormal blood sugar levels, heart disease, high blood pressure, increased weight, and abnormal levels of the sex hormones.
There are two tests, performed in our office, to determine whether or not the adrenal glands are functioning properly. The first is Ragland’s test. From a laying to a sitting to a standing position, the systolic blood pressure (the top number) should rise by 5 to 10 points. If the blood pressure stays the same or drops after a change in position, the adrenal glands are not working properly. Another test is called the Paradoxical Papillary Response. The pupil should become smaller with light continuously shined in it for 30 seconds. If it does not stay closed, it can also indicate weak adrenal glands.
Finally, there are five solutions to reduce stress.
1. Reduce sugar, caffeine, and tobacco, all which stimulate the adrenal gland.
2. Supplement with B complex vitamins, vitamin A and C, magnesium, and potassium which support proper adrenal gland function.
3. Exercise. Even a 10 minute walk is enough to increase energy and improve your mood.
4. Laugh!
5. Visit your Las Vegas chiropractor. Studies show that chiropractic adjustments relieve aches and pain, lower blood pressure, and improve digestive health by reducing physical stress on the body. For more information about chiropractic, read the blog entry dated 9/2/08 “A Pebble in Your Shoe: A Chiropractic Explanation”.
1 comment(s) so far...
Re: Stress: What it is, What it does, How to Relieve It
Thank you for your information on stress. This is especially helpful during the holiday season because stress levels increase at this time of year. There are so many simple things we can do for ourselves...like four of the five you mentioned that will help improve ourselved without involving medical intervention/treatment.
By Greg Clemensen on
12/18/2008 2:16 PM
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