How to Identify Five Symptoms of Chronic Stress

Chronic stress is a long-term psychological condition that affects the physiology of the body in many ways. This can be brought about through intense situations such as death of a loved one, loss of a job and divorce. Having chronic stress can cause negative ailments to the body, so it is important to identify it as soon as possible. In severe cases, chronic stress can lead to a panic disorder or panic attacks. Additionally, chronic stress plays a major role in worsening or triggering cardiovascular disease. There are five common symptoms which can be identified by following the characteristics and signs.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Look for any signs of anxiety. The feelings of anxiety include worrying, nervousness, fear or apprehension. The symptoms exhibited by the sufferer include heart palpitations, nervousness, stomach problems and difficulty breathing.

2. Observe for tension headaches. These types of headaches are caused by the prolonged contraction of the muscles of the face, forehead, shoulders and neck.

3. Look for signs of insomnia. This sleeping disorder is characterized by difficulty initiating sleep or difficulty maintaining sleep. Chronic stress can cause prolonged sleep problems.

4. Observe for long-term diarrhea. Chronic stress can cause this digestive problem. Diarrhea is the movement of watery and loose stools and is often associated with abdominal pain, gassiness and bloating.

5. Observe for lack of appetite and loss of weight. These are common symptoms of chronic stress. The sufferer will usually eat less than usual over a period of time.

References

• Understanding Stress
• "Medical Diagnosis and Treatment," Stephen J. McPhee, MD, Publisher: McGraw-Hill 2006

Resources

• Effects of stress

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.