![\"anxiety](\"https:\/\/torranceaudiology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/anxiety-stress--513x768.jpeg\" "\\"stress")
<\/p>\nStress is a part of life. While not all bad, high levels of stress have been linked to a number of long-term health problems. Chronic stress can even lead to hearing loss.<\/p>\n
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Stress is how your body reacts to a potentially dangerous situation. Known as your \u201cfight or flight\u201d response, stress tells your body what to do. Your body releases adrenaline so you can run away or stand your ground and fight.<\/p>\n
Stress becomes unhealthy when you experience it on a daily basis. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, long-term stress is harmful to your health. The added adrenaline makes you breathe faster and diverts oxygen to your muscles. This hormone also suppresses your immune, digestive, reproductive and sleep systems.<\/p>\n
In a single stressful situation, your body would receive a signal that you are safe and return to normal. But if you are constantly stressed, your body stays in this elevated state. Your circulation is restricted, which can lead to:<\/p>\n
The hair cells within your inner ear responsible for translating soundwaves into electrical impulses rely on good circulation to perform. Without proper bloodflow, these hair cells can become damaged or die, causing sensorineural hearing loss.<\/p>\n
In addition to hearing loss, poor circulation can cause pulsatile tinnitus<\/a>. This type of tinnitus is described as hearing a rhythmic beat or pulse in line with your heartbeat in your ear.<\/p>\n Reducing the amount of stress in your life can help protect your ears from hearing loss<\/a> caused by poor circulation. The American Phycological Association created a list of five tips for reducing stress<\/a>.<\/p>\n Taking a step away from what is causing you stress for as little as 20 minutes can give you perspective and make you feel less overwhelmed.<\/p>\n Moving the facial muscles responsible for smiling and laughing can ease tension. When these muscles are activated, they send a happy signal to the brain.<\/p>\n Exercising just 20 minutes a day provides a wide range of health benefits to both your body and mind.<\/p>\n Talking about your problems to friends, family or even a medical professional can help those around you understand what you are going through and provide helpful feedback.<\/p>\n Medication can help your body and mind relax and focus.<\/p>\nCoping with Stress<\/h2>\n
Take a Break<\/h3>\n
Smile<\/h3>\n
Exercise<\/h3>\n
Find Social Support<\/h3>\n
Meditate<\/h3>\n