STRESS- conventionally known as the gestator of all common ailments, the mother of all health problems. It creeps into your life silently, like a parasite, feeds on you till you are all consumed by it. Most people only recognise the emotional toll stress can give, but do not realise the wide range of physical symptoms it can cause. Let us see how stress affects the body and some hidden symptoms to watch for.
1. Emotional and Cognitive Impact of Stress
Stress can have a profound impact on the mind and affect how the brain functions. The symptoms are subtle at first, like forgetfulness or zoning out, but over time, they intensify.
Difficulty concentrating. A muddled feeling sometimes described as brain fog
- Memory lapses and other issues
- Anxiety and irritability
- Depression or mood swings
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep
2. Cardiovascular Effects
Chronic stress keeps your body in a constant state of alert, known as the fight-or-flight response. This causes several changes in the body.
Chronic stress keeps your body in a constant state of alert, known as the fight-or-flight response. This causes several changes in the body.
- Increases blood pressure
- Raises heart rate
- Elevates the risk of heart disease or stroke
- Causes palpitations, like a fluttery heartbeat
3. Digestive System Disruptions
You need to know that the gut and brain are closely connected. Stress can lead to:
You need to know that the gut and brain are closely connected. Stress can lead to:
- Nausea, bloating, or cramps
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) flare-ups
- Changes in appetite (you may start eating too much or too little)
- Heartburn or acid reflux
4. Immune System Suppression
Long-term stress can weaken your immune system. You might notice you are getting sick more often without realising that stress is the root cause.
- Frequent colds or infections
- Slower wound healing
- Aggravation of autoimmune disorders
5. Musculoskeletal Issues
These issues might be presumed as due to poor posture or sleeping deficiency, but stress is often the major contributor. Muscles tend to stay tense during stress, causing
These issues might be presumed as due to poor posture or sleeping deficiency, but stress is often the major contributor. Muscles tend to stay tense during stress, causing
- Tension headaches
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
- Neck, shoulder, or back pain
6. Skin and Hair Reactions
Stress shows up on the outside, too, in the places you least suspect. These symptoms seem unrelated to emotions, but they are often triggered by stress
- Acne or skin flare-ups (like eczema or psoriasis)
- Dandruff, hair thinning or hair loss
- Hives or unexplained rashes
7. Hormonal Imbalance
Stress affects the hormone-regulating system - the endocrine glands like ovaries, testes, pancreas, thyroid, etc, which can cause:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Worsening PMS or PMDD
- Reduced libido
- Fatigue or low energy even after resting
Manage Stress the Right Way
By incorporating mindfulness, regular exercise, a healthy diet, therapy, and adequate sleep into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce stress. If stress symptoms persist and impact your daily life, consider seeking professional help from a healthcare expert or therapist for personalized support and guidance.
Star Hospitals has the best psychologists and endocrinologists in Hyderabad. As a team, they effectively manage stress and its detrimental effects on the body. The multidisciplinary approach of the hospital has given thousands a new stress-free beginning to life. Star Hospitals has positively impacted the lives of over 30 lakh patients with care that enhances the treatment and recovery of patients. The dedicated Star family now comprises 600+ patient care beds and 150 clinicians, all committed not only to treatment but also to improving the post-treatment quality of life for our patients.
Do not choose to struggle in silence. Book an appointment with STAR Hospitals today, and rest assured, you're ready to welcome a stress-free, joyful life.
