Marital Stress Can Make You Sick
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Do you feel like you can't get through a single day without fighting with your spouse? Researchers point to an Ohio State study that indicates that it could be taking a toll on your health.
Couples who regularly fight have elevated stress levels that significantly impede the ability of their bodies to heal wounds. Scientists say this is particularly important during times of illness and recovery from surgery.
Forty-two married couples were studied, and the average couple had been married 13 years. During the study, couples discussed marital topics such as money or in-laws. Not surprisingly these were specially selected to provoke an argument.
To monitor the discussion's impact on healing, the researchers created eight tiny blisters on the arms of each spouse prior to the conversations. After removing the wounded skin, the blisters actually healed slower in those who were arguing.
It makes you really think about the effect of stress and negativity on the body.
Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor
