Some people routinely work 55 to 60 hours per week -- or even more. Although this probably sounds unpleasant and stressful to most of us, is there really any scientific evidence to prove that such long hours are unhealthy? According to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, those who routinely work at least 11 hours per day have a 67 percent higher risk of suffering a heart attack or heart disease than people who work fewer hours.
This increase in mortality is often attributed to the longer working hours contributing to a more sedentary lifestyle, as well as poor eating habits and increased stress. However, job satisfaction plays a role in determining whether working long hours is unhealthy. Those who love their jobs tend to be healthier than those who don't, and they can usually cope better with working longer hours.
Some of the effects of stress:
- People suffering from chronic stress are likely to be irritable, anxious and depressed, as well as to suffer from headaches or insomnia. Chronic stress can also lead to overeating or under-eating, alcohol or drug abuse, and social withdrawal.
- Stress hormones, rapid breathing and increased heart rate can also upset the digestive system. Stress can cause heartburn and acid reflux.
- Chronic stress can also affect a woman's menstrual cycle, while in men, stress can cause a drop in testosterone levels, along with lowered sperm production and erectile dysfunction.
