Priya has been experiencing severe stomach cramps, frequent flare-ups of eczema, and recurrent throat infections, alongside persistent insomnia. During high-pressure moments, she suffers from a rapid pulse, sweaty palms, and intense tension headaches. Priya explains to her GP, Dr Chen, that she has been the primary caregiver for her grandmother with severe dementia for the past two years, and is currently preparing for a crucial professional licensing exam next week. Dr Chen suspects chronic stress is impacting Priya's physical health. He measures her blood pressure and schedules blood tests to examine her cytokine levels and white blood cell count.
Discuss the role of stress in illness. Refer to Priya in your answer.
12 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Psychology Role of stress in illness. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.