When stressed, your body releases certain hormones in order to defend itself from the stress-causing stimuli. Eventually, a state of relaxation overtakes and regulates the body. In a constant high-stress environment, your body may not have time to return to a state of relaxation before having to respond to a new stressful situation, potentially causing chronic illnesses. Knowing the symptoms of stress and fatigue can help you know whether or not medical attention is necessary.
Drowsiness and Apathy
The New York Times explains drowsiness and apathy--a feeling of disinterest or indifference about life--are symptoms connected to fatigue. Fatigue is a short-term natural response to physical exertion, boredom, stress or lack of sleep. However, if these feelings and tendencies are not relieved by proper sleep, good nutrition or a low-stress environment, you may suffer from chronic fatigue and you should be evaluated by your doctor.
Poor Concentration and Memory Function
If you are under significant amounts of stress or pressure, or suffer from a constant feeling of exhaustion, you may find you have difficulty retaining information, or you may get easily sidetracked and cannot focus for long periods of time. In order for your cognitive functions to work properly, your brain needs adequate amounts of rest each night. A study published in the "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences" (2009) by Dr. Amy Arnsten showed stress triggers the enzyme kinase C, which actually causes a disruption in memory function in the frontal lobe of the brain. Reducing stress levels can decrease the production of this enzyme and improve brain and memory function.
Change in Appetite
Your appetite may be affected by stress and fatigue. You may notice you are craving more salty or sugary foods. This is the body's natural response to exhaustion, because these foods are quick sources of energy that break down quickly in the body. If you find eating to be a form of comfort, an increased appetite may also be a response to your body's desire for comfort and relaxation. It is also a common response for you to lose your appetite when stressed or fatigued, because hormones released during stressful situations suppress the symptoms and hormones related to hunger.
Increased Illness and Infection
Your body releases the hormone cortisol as a healthy response to high stress levels. However, if you are constantly exposed to a high-stress environment, your body will continually be stimulated by cortisol. Digitalnaturopath.com explains having high levels of cortisol in the body may harm the immune system. This is one possible explanation for why you may have the tendency to get sick or develop sinus infections when you are stressed or have fatigue. Taking a few extra minutes to meditate, relax or stretch may lower your stress levels and cortisol production and improve your immune responses.
References
- New York Times: Fatigue
- Digital Naturopath: Elevated Cortisol Levels
- Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences; Amy Arnsten, Ph.D.; 2009.
