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In times of stress the body secretes a cascade of brain chemicals and hormones, including adrenaline and hydrocortisone, that stimulate what is known as the ‘fight of flight' response.

Adrenaline increases the heart rate and rate of breathing, and prepares the body to fight an external threat or flee from it. Hydrocortisone helps it to maintain its readiness for dealing with stress. Thus when we hear bad news on the phone, our immediate reaction is one triggered by adrenaline, followed by an increased secretion of hydrocortisone.

The hormone that helps us to cope with stress for a short period, however, can cause health problems if we are subjected to long-term stress.

Constant stress causes the body to secrete adrenaline and hydrocortisone n a continuing basis, and in time their presence in the bloodstream may be erosive. Prolonged high levels of adrenaline, for example, force the heart and lungs to work overtime and keep blood pressure above normal.

And constant high levels of hydrocortisone can increase the cholesterol level and cause the platelets in the blood to clot unnecessarily. In time, these changes may contribute to strokes or heart attacks.

High levels of hydrocortisone may also lead to the development of stomach and duodenal ulcers. In addition, excess hydrocortisone can have a negative effect on the immune system.

In fact, there exists a series of interactions between the brain and the immune system: cells from each use many of the same chemical messengers and receptors, suggesting a link through which stress might affect immune function and enhance vulnerability to illness.

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