Stress and anxiety have the ability to cause many physical health effects because the body responds to the way people feel and act, according to FamilyDoctor.org, the website for the American Academy of Family Physicians. Certain illnesses or conditions may develop as the body's way of warning that something is wrong. Acute disorders may appear following a stressful event, but chronic problems can result from prolonged periods of stress and anxiety.
Immune Deficiency
Stress weakens the immune system, making people who experience stress and anxiety more vulnerable to common colds, respiratory conditions, frequent illnesses and cancer, according to the American Chronicle. People suffering from long periods of stress may not eat well, choosing unhealthy foods or even consuming too much alcohol. Various systems throughout the body, including the immune system, are weakened by poor diet and nutrition.
Heart Disease
Blood vessels become constricted from stress and anxiety, causing an increase in blood volume. Blood pressure rises throughout the day. As the heart continues to pump blood, the arteries can get clogged with fatty acids, leading to blood clots or heart disease from a buildup of cholesterol over time. Stress may cause heart attack, sudden cardiac death or stroke, according to the Women's Health Channel. Stress and anxiety may also lead to overeating, smoking and a lack of physical activity, which increase the risk of heart disease.
Pain
People undergoing stress and anxiety unintentionally respond by tensing up the muscles. The scalp, head and neck muscles contract, causing tension headaches or migraines, American Chronicle explains. A constant state of tension can lead to frequent headaches. Back pain, chest pain, neck pain and general aches or pains can be attributed to stress and anxiety, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Stomach Problems
Stomach aches, diarrhea, gas, bloating and gastritis often stem from stress and anxiety. Stress may also increase the risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome and colitis, according to the Women's Health Channel.
Acid Reflux
Saliva in the mouth often decreases during stressful periods, American Chronicle points out. Swallowing becomes difficult and increases stomach acid production. Excess stomach acid can cause frequent bouts of heartburn or acid reflux, the burning sensation in the chest and sour taste in the mouth.
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness may result from the effects of stress and anxiety, FamilyDoctor.org says. Insomnia may also result, either causing the fatigue or contributing to a never-ending cycle of stress, anxiety and fatigue. People dealing with stress and anxiety may also experience bouts with shortness or breath, a racing heart, sweating or sexual problems.
