July 20, 2008

Domestic Violence Health Effects: Chronic Medical Conditions and Domestic Violence

Migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, essential hypertension, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, chronic anxiety, depression are just a few of the ongoing complaints of domestic abuse survivors. And it’s not surprising.These conditions are ALL mediated by the sympathetic nervous system—a system perpetually “on” for individuals whose lives are entangled in domestic abuse.Stemming back to our caveman ancestors, we inherited a physiology that is built to protect us from the perceived threat of impending danger. And when present, sympathetic arousal occurs.For example, when the caveman saw a tiger, the thought “tiger” registered, activating a limbic system response of FEAR…ultimately, resulting in an adrenergic response that prepares the body for “fight or flight.” And with this, of course, mobilizing the proper body systems to deal with the circumstances at hand.The Good: Our Survival MechanismHere’s what happens: blood rushes to the core of the body and away from the periphery, fueling the core organs, (heart and lungs) for this magnificent maneuver. Blood is quickly pumped into the large muscle groups to enable your rapid exit or fierce fight.Numerous other physiological changes occur. You’re getting the picture, correct? In a nutshell…1) Your cardiovascular system is aroused: increased heart rate, rise in blood pressure.2) Your […]

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