Final answer:
Warning signals of stress encompass both physical and psychological signs and can contribute to various psychophysiological disorders. Chronic stress affects the immune system and cardiovascular health, leading to negative health consequences and exacerbating illnesses. Therefore, the correct option is a.
Step-by-step explanation:
Warning signals of stress are not limited to physical symptoms but also include psychological and behavioral signs. Physical disorders that arise or worsen due to stress and emotional factors are termed psychophysiological disorders, demonstrating that stress can contribute to the onset and progression of various illnesses. The immune system, cardiovascular health, and susceptibility to certain diseases, such as asthma, are all pathways through which stress can impact health.
Stress responses involve physiological reactions like increased heart rate, as well as cognitive and behavioral changes. While some initial stress responses are beneficial in acute situations, chronic activation due to prolonged stress, such as worrying about finances or relationships, can lead to negative health consequences. Symptoms of stress are often felt or experienced by individuals themselves and vary widely, extending beyond the capacity to handle minor stresses, with varying potential impacts on overall health and susceptibility to disease.