Problems caused by Sympathetic Dominaance

Physiological Problems due to stress:

Excess cortisol:

• Increases blood sugar levels
• Diminishes cellular utilization of glucose
• Decreases building of proteins
• Increases protein breakdown that can lead to losing muscle
• Causes demineralization of bone that can lead to osteoporosis
• Interferes with skin regeneration and healing
• Causes shrinking of lymphatic tissue
• Diminishes lymphocyte (immune system cells) numbers and functions
• Deposition of fats around the abdomen

Excess adrenaline:

• Dizziness
• Light Headedness
• Vision Changes
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Insomnia

Potential health problems:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes: Constant high blood pressure
• Headaches/ Migraines
• Heartburn
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Constipation
• Worsening of alzheimer’s
• Accelerated aging
• Depression
• Ulcers

Potential problems due to psychological stress:

• Anxious
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Mental fatigue
• Difficulty learning
• Difficulty processing cognitive functions

Citation:

Silverthorn, Dee Unglaub. 2007. Human physiology: an integrated approach. San Francisco: Pearson/Benjamin Cummings.