Stress and cancer are interrelated in that both produce immense misery in humans. But the relationship goes beyond the commonality of both conditions.
Cancer is by far the most dreaded disease, probably the most feared diagnosis a person will encounter. The emotional component of the condition, the fear of death, is an integral part of any successful treatment.
The view, focusing on the relationship between stress and cancer, also carries a new role not merely for doctors and others in the medical field, but also for patients. This new perspective emphasizes the role of physical activity and exercise in treating stress-related illnesses. It is these efforts that may save the lives of patients who have cancer.
What is stress?
Stress is defined as “a state of alarm over a past or anticipated future event or of a mental state of apprehension”. In general, the definition covers the events of our lives that result in anxiety.
For instance, if someone experiences sudden intense and overwhelming worry from losing his job or his girlfriend, this can be termed as stress. But there are other factors associated with the onset of this anxiety like illness, work, and relationship issues among other things.
The symptoms of stress are usually varied depending on the individual and how intense the pressure is. One common sign of stress is the inability to relax. A sense of impending doom is another symptom that makes the condition even worse.
The types of symptoms and causes determine the treatment model of stress. Treatment may vary according to the extent of the stress and the individual’s ability to cope. Physical exercise can be an effective way of treating stress.
Physical activity involves using one’s body for mental, emotional and bodily functions. By engaging in physical activity, the patient can effectively deal with stress. Physical exercise is also critical because it can increase strength, decrease the chance of heart attack, and improve the circulation in the body. Exercise helps in managing the blood pressure, helps reduce the risk of stroke, and helps in the digestion process of food.