This is how stress from nightmares affects the body

Having an occasional nightmare may seem like a minor issue, but when distressing dreams become frequent, they can have a cumulative effect that directly impacts physical and emotional health. Several studies have shown that Stress from nightmares not only disrupts nighttime rest, but can also affect several body systems, causing everything from anxiety to cardiovascular disorders.

The link between nightmares and chronic stress

Nightmares are intensely disturbing dreams that often cause fear, anxiety, or despair. Although they are often due to External stimuli such as movies, heavy foods, or stressful situations can also be a reflection of internal conflicts or unresolved traumas.

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When these dreamlike experiences are repeated frequently, the body begins to experience a constant state of alert. According to the American Sleep Association (ASA), this type of nighttime stress can trigger physiological responses similar to those seen in real-life situations of danger, such as increased blood pressure, the release of cortisol, and a rapid heart rate.

Sleep disturbances and accumulated fatigue

One of the most immediate effects of constant nightmares is sleep disruption. People who They wake up abruptly due to a bad dream They have more difficulty reaching the deep stages of rest, which prevents adequate physical and mental recovery.

This leads to persistent daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and even memory problems. In the long term, sleep deprivation can increase the risk of diseases such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and depression.

Hormonal changes and nervous system overload

The stress caused by nightmares can cause prolonged activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a hormonal network that regulates stress response. When this system remains active for prolonged periods, cortisol levels (known as the "stress hormone") remain elevated, affecting the body's hormonal balance.

These imbalances can cause alterations in appetite, mood, immune system and metabolism. In more severe cases, mood disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been documented, especially in people who have recurring nightmares related to traumatic experiences.

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Mental health and sleep medicine experts recommend not ignoring nightmares if they occur repeatedly. Some helpful strategies to reduce their frequency and impact include:

• Establish a relaxing sleep routine before bed.
• Avoid using screens and eating heavy meals at night.
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Consult a psychologist if nightmares are related to traumatic events or persistent anxiety.

In some cases, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia or nightmare management can be highly effective.

Nightmares don't just affect the mind; they also impact the body. The stress they generate can disrupt everything from nighttime rest to hormonal and cardiovascular function. Identify its cause, pay attention to its frequency, and seek professional help when necessary. It's key to preventing these types of dreams from becoming a major health problem. Getting a good night's sleep isn't a luxury, but a vital necessity.

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