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Travel Stress

Meaning

The composite physiological and psychological burden imposed on the body by the process of travel, encompassing factors like circadian rhythm disruption from jet lag, sleep deprivation, changes in diet and activity, and the psychological demands of unfamiliar environments. This stressor can significantly impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to transient spikes in cortisol and a temporary dysregulation of other endocrine functions, including thyroid and sex steroid homeostasis. Managing travel stress is a critical component of maintaining hormonal wellness, particularly for individuals on sensitive replacement therapies.