The body can't tell the difference between real and perceived threats. Intense feelings of stress over work, arguments, traffic or debt can put the body in a reactive state just as if it were in an actual life and death situation. The more often this physical reaction towards stress occurs, the more likely it will occur in the future. This chronic stress can disrupt almost every symptom in the body and lead to serious health problems, warns the mental health website Help Guide. Therefore, it is important to learn to recognize the physical symptoms of stress and take the appropriate measures to learn to manage the stress before serious health complications arise.
Aches and Pains
Backaches, headaches, chest pain and general muscle aches can be a physical symptom of stress. These are usually chronic, and may flare up and intensify in direct correlation to the amount of stress a person feels. People who are not aware of their emotions or stress level may conclude that their aches and pains are due to a physical ailment.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues are also a common occurrence when someone is under severe stress, says Help Guide. This can include nausea, indigestion, upset stomach, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea.
Heart Problems
Heart palpitations, rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure are also a symptom of severe stress. While all people under prolonged stress are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, it is of particular concern to those who are excessively competitive, unusually animated, impatient and particularly those who are hostile, warns the online mental health network Psych Central.
Decreased Immunity
When the body it stressed, it may not be able to fight off illness as effectively. This can result in more frequent colds and viruses. In addition, Psych Central warns that some autoimmune disease like arthritis and multiple sclerosis and allergies may be exacerbated by stress.
Weight Changes
Stress can cause two opposite reactions in terms of weight. Some people experience a loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss, while others will have an increase in appetite and subsequent weight gain. Regardless of which scenario occurs, an unintentional change in weight is a physical symptom of stress, says the Mayo Clinic.
Sleep Problems
Feelings of severe stress can cause changes in sleep patterns. Most people will have difficulty sleeping, either waking up frequently throughout the night or have difficulty falling asleep. However, some people may have the opposite reaction and sleep much more than is usual.
