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Arthritis

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Stress & Your Arthritis
Physiology of Stress
Signs & Symptoms
Positive vs. Negative
Stress Management Benefits

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Positive vs. Negative Stress


Although too much stress can be harmful to the body, a small amount of stress is necessary for your body to function properly. Positive stress (for example, stress that occurs while taking an exam or being on stage) can actually help you perform better. Furthermore, this type of stress is only temporary, and your body's physical changes (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, metabolism and muscle tension) can quickly return to normal.

However, when your body experiences negative stress, the physical symptoms of stress, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, remain for longer periods of time. Because your body does not have a chance to recover from the stressful situation, you gradually become physically and emotionally drained, which can lead to chronic stress.

It is important to recognize what type of stress you are experiencing and how to deal with it most effectively.