A REVIEW ON IMPACT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS IN IMMUNE RESPONSES IN DIFFERENT PATHOLOGICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

Stress is the common psychological discomfort. Stress generally physical, psychological, acute stress and chronic stress. The factors which cause the mental stress are called stressors. Stress can affect various organ systems in our body.

Mental stress may alter immune system and cause vulnerability to infections. It affects both cell mediated and humoral immunity.

Physical and psychological stress causes the activation of Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis. And hypothalamus increase the release of corticotrophin releasing hormone [CRH] and anterior pituitary release adrenocorticotrophin hormone. Thus, increase serum levels of corticosteroids.

Psychological stress can promote the infectious diseases like tuberculosis. Also, Herpes simplex and Epstein Barr virus infection may re-activate because of mental stress.

The psychological stress has high impact on immune system in various levels. Because novel diseases like COVID – 19 largely effected by psychological stress. The research and practice on stress reduction techniques are highly relevant can be considered as useful prevention method.

Keywords: Psychological stress, Immune system