Stress can be both physical and mental and any of these types of stress can have physical manifestations. When you are stressed, your body releases the hormone cortisol. Cortisol can then trigger a chain reaction in your body that can cause damage to your physical being. Some people thrive in high stress environments while some people may find it difficult to cope with regular daily activities when faced with stressful situations. Either way, the effects of stress can show up in your body in different ways such as:
Headaches
Stress hormones can affect your blood vessels in a manner that triggers a headache.Also, stress can cause tension, which dilates your blood vessels, worsening the pounding sensations of a migraine. Clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth in times of stress can also contribute to the formation of a tension headache. If you experience stress-related headaches, you may benefit from counseling, learning stress management techniques, or consulting your physician who may prescribe some medications.
Backache
Back pain can be another side effect of emotional or mental stress. Studies have shown that emotional stress can cause breathing changes and muscle tension, which then contribute to pain in the middle of the back. Additionally, stress may lead to periods of inactivity. Spending a lot of time sitting affects your posture and causes strain on the muscles of the lower back. One tip for decreasing back pain due to stress includes making time to stretch and exercise your muscles to prevent backaches.
Muscle Aches and Pains
Other muscles that can be affected by the strain of tension include the muscles of the jaw and shoulders. Relaxation techniques that may help relieve muscle tension include mindfully working your way from your head to your toes, alternately clenching and releasing groups of muscles.
Stomach Upset
You may have experienced feeling the sudden urge to poo when you’re faced with a high tension situation like a test or an interview. This is because the nerves of the human stomach and intestinal tract respond to stress hormones just as the nerves in the brain do. Children seem especially prone to tummy aches when they are feeling nervous or upset.Stress can lead to stomach aches, nausea, and diarrhea.
Weight Gain
Stress triggers the excess release of cortisol, and this hormone can stimulate your appetite, causing you to overeat. In addition to a false sense of hunger, it can be tempting to “eat through the stress” by overindulging in high-fat or sugary comfort foods. Unfortunately, the weight gain that accompanies overeating may trigger feelings of self-loathing, creating even more mental stress. Anxiety and tension can also cause weight gain if they prevent you from exercising and getting the proper amount of sleep. Turning to alcohol to numb feelings of stress can also contribute to weight gain.
Chest Pain
Stress and anxiety can cause chest pain due to muscle tension or by triggering panic attacks. In fact, symptoms of a panic attack can closely mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. Individuals suffering a panic attack for the first time often report feeling as though they are having a heart attack. Symptoms may include a feeling of pressure in the chest, a squeezing sensation in the chest, fast heart rate, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is not primarily caused by stress, however your level of stress may have a direct effect on your blood pressure. This is evidenced by the phenomenon known as white coat hypertension. This refers to a situation in which individuals with normal blood pressure have high blood pressure readings due to their stress and anxiety over being in a doctor’s office. Allowing time for relaxation, knowing when to say no to additional duties, and focusing on daily pleasures can help to decrease the effects of stress.
Sleep Disorders
While sleep is a useful tool for combating signs of stress and tension, your sleep can also fall victim to the ravages of stress. High levels of cortisol can interfere with your sleep-wake cycle and prevent you from falling asleep. A disordered sleep cycle can also prevent your body from obtaining the necessary quantity of deep, uninterrupted sleep each night. Prepare your body for a restful night of sleep by dimming the lights and engaging in quiet, restful activities before bedtime. Maintain a cozy, peaceful sleeping area by keeping work activities and noisy distractions out of the bedroom.
Protecting Your Body from Stress
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be hard to protect your body from stress. To keep your defenses strong, be sure to provide your body with nourishing foods. Wholesome foods will provide the energy you need without packing on unnecessary pounds. Make time to exercise to keep fit and allow your muscles to stretch and strengthen. Take frequent breaks while working at your desk to rest your eyes, stretch your muscles, and stay hydrated. Include time to relax with friends, unwind with a book, and enjoy your favorite hobbies. A happy, relaxed mind is necessary for a healthy body..
