Which factor might delay wound healing?

Stress and anxiety can significantly delay wound healing due to their impact on the body's physiological responses. When a person experiences stress, the body releases stress hormones such as cortisol, which can suppress the immune system and reduce the body's inflammatory response. This is critical because inflammation plays a vital role in the initial stages of wound healing, allowing for the clearing of pathogens and the initiation of tissue repair processes.

Moreover, chronic stress can lead to behaviors that negatively affect healing, such as poor nutrition, decreased physical activity, and insufficient sleep, all of which are essential components for optimal recovery. Thus, the heightened levels of stress hormones not only directly affect healing by inhibiting the necessary biological responses but can also lead to lifestyle factors that further compromise the healing process. This makes stress and anxiety key factors in delaying wound healing.