Final answer:
Stress can increase the likelihood of getting sick from infections by suppressing lymphocytes, accelerating the hardening of arteries, and facilitating the deposition of cholesterol and fat around the heart.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stress can increase our likelihood to get sick from viruses or bacterial infections due to its impact on our immune system.
1. Stress suppresses the release of lymphocytes: Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in fighting off infections. Higher levels of stress hormone cortisol can suppress the production and function of lymphocytes, making us more susceptible to infections.
2. Stress accelerates the "hardening" of the arteries: Chronic stress can lead to the release of stress hormones, which can cause blood vessels to constrict and raise blood pressure. This can contribute to the development of cardiovascular conditions that weaken the immune system.
3. Stress facilitates the depositing of cholesterol and fat around the heart: Prolonged stress and elevated cortisol levels can increase the deposition of cholesterol and fat in the arteries. This leads to atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows and hardens the arteries, impairing the immune system's ability to target infectious agents.
Learn more about Effects of stress on the immune system