Yes, stress can affect your cholesterol levels and your cardiovascular health.

An Ohio State University study discovered that stress slows the body's metabolism of triglycerides, a type of fat linked to cardiovascular system disorders, including heart attacks. By slowing the metabolism of triglycerides, stress allows the fat to remain in the blood longer, a factor that may speed up atherosclerosis development.

According to WebMD:

• 75-90% of all doctor's office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.

• 43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress

• Stress is linked to six of the leading causes of death:
  1. Heart Disease
  2. Cancer
  3. Lung Ailments
  4. Accidents
  5. Cirrhosis of the Liver
  6. Suicide

Sources of Stress

Stress can come from a variety of sources:

• Work-Related Stress

• Financial Pressures

• Too Much to Do, Not Enough Time

• Marital Conflict

• Family Dysfunction

• Too Many Changes Happening at the Same Time

Effects of Stress

The American Institute of Stress indicates that individuals may have both emotional as well as physical symptoms of stress. Below is a list of 52 of the most common emotional and physical symptoms of stress:

1. Frequent headaches, jaw clenching or pain
2. Gritting, grinding teeth
3. Stuttering or stammering
4. Tremors, trembling of lips, hands
5. Neck ache, back pain, muscle spasms
6. Light headedness, faintness, dizziness
7. Ringing, buzzing or "popping sounds
8. Frequent blushing, sweating
9. Cold or sweaty hands, feet
10. Dry mouth, problems swallowing
11. Frequent colds, infections, herpes sores
12. Rashes, itching, hives, "goose bumps"
13. Unexplained or frequent "allergy" attacks
14. Heartburn, stomach pain, nausea
15. Excess belching, flatulence
16. Constipation, diarrhea
17. Difficulty breathing, sighing
18. Sudden attacks of panic
19. Chest pain, palpitations
20. Frequent urination
21. Poor sexual desire or performance
22. Excess anxiety, worry, guilt, nervousness
23. Increased anger, frustration, hostility
24. Depression, frequent or wild mood swings
25. Increased or decreased appetite
26. Increased anger, frustration, hostility
27. Increased or decreased appetite
28. Insomnia, nightmares, disturbing dreams
29. Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts
30. Trouble learning new information
31. Forgetfulness, disorganization, confusion
32. Difficulty in making decisions.
33. Feeling overloaded or overwhelmed.
34. Frequent crying spells or suicidal thoughts
35. Feelings of loneliness or worthlessness
36. Little interest in appearance, punctuality
37. Nervous habits, fidgeting, feet tapping
38. Increased frustration, irritability, edginess
39. Overreaction to petty annoyances
40. Increased number of minor accidents
41. Obsessive or compulsive behavior
42. Reduced work efficiency or productivity
43. Lies or excuses to cover up poor work
44. Rapid or mumbled speech
45. Excessive defensiveness or suspiciousness
46. Problems in communication, sharing
47. Social withdrawal and isolation
48. Constant tiredness, weakness, fatigue
49. Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs
50. Weight gain or loss without diet
51. Increased smoking, alcohol or drug use
52. Excessive gambling or impulse buying