Answer this question to the best of your ability:
How does anxiety impact one's physical health?
Anxiety can have several direct and indirect effects on physical health. The immediate physiological response to anxiety involves the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn cause an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rates. This heightened state of alertness is generally short-lived but can become chronic for people with anxiety disorders. Over time, this constant state of arousal can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to heart problems such as arrhythmias or heart failure. Furthermore, anxiety can also manifest in gastrointestinal symptoms like stomach cramps, diarrhea, and indigestion due to the activation of the 'fight or flight' response. Lastly, persistent anxiety often leads to poor sleep quality, unhealthy eating habits, and sedentary behavior, all of which can exacerbate existing health issues or contribute to the development of new ones.