

Physical symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses,
so it is important to have a medical physician treat any other
physical disorders that may be present. Remember, however, that
the body and mind are not separate entities. The physical problems
outlined below may result from or be exacerbated by stress:
Sleep
disturbances
Back,
shoulder or neck pain
Tension
or migraine headaches
Upset
or acid stomach, cramps, heartburn, gas, irritable bowel syndrome
Constipation,
diarrhea
Weight
gain or loss, eating disorders
Hair
loss
Muscle
tension
Fatigue
High
blood pressure
Irregular
heartbeat, palpitations
Asthma
or shortness of breath
Chest
pain
Sweaty
palms or hands
Cold
hands or feet
Skin
problems (hives, eczema, psoriasis, tics, itching)
Periodontal
disease, jaw pain
Reproductive
problems
Immune
system suppression: more colds, flu, infections
Growth
inhibition


Like physical signs, emotional symptoms such as anxiety
or depression can mask conditions other than stress. It is important
to find out whether they are stress-related or not.
Nervousness,
anxiety
Depression,
moodiness
Feeling
of "butterflies”
Irritability,
frustration
Memory
problems
Lack
of concentration
Trouble
thinking clearly
Feeling
out of control
Substance
abuse
Phobias
Overreactions


The antisocial behavior displayed in stressful situations
can cause the rapid deterioration of relationships with family,
friends, co-workers, or even strangers. A person under stress
may manifest signs such as:
Increased
arguments
Isolation
from social activities
Conflict
with co-workers or employers
Frequent
job changes
Road
rage
Domestic
or workplace violence
Overreactions
Severe stress reactions that persist for long periods of time
and recur without warning after a traumatic event or even after
an intense experience such as an accident, hospitalization, or
loss, may develop into post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD).


Stress
Relief Treatments
60-Second
Lifestyle Stress Test
Common
Causes of Stress
How
can problem solving manage stress?
How
can time management reduce stress?
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