The physical effects of stress are unpleasant

The physical effects of stress can be very debilitating on you, but can indirectly effect people around you.

Do you suffer from any of the following common effects of stress?

• constant tiredness - even after sleep
• aches and pain in tense muscles commonly in your neck/ back
• regular headaches and migraines
• bouts of constipation or diarrhoea or IBS
• eczema or asthma
• heart burn or heart palpitations
• rapid shallow breathing
• dizzy spells
• feeling sick
• sweaty palms or body
• missed period if you are female

Stress can also put you more at risk of accidents; either through lack of concentration, dizziness, clumsiness or high muscle tension.

Stress can make you feel dreadful, lacking energy and the will to do anything.

The tell-tale sign that these effects are more than likely down to stress is that you observe them after periods of high pressure in your life, in response to activities where you felt out of control during, or after arguments, or when you felt unvalued.

If the effects come and go then acute stress maybe the cause.

If, however, they have been present over a periods of days or weeks then go and see your doctor immediately to check if there is a medical/ disease cause or to see if chronic stress is the cause.

Stress related diseases are much worse sign of stress. Chronic stress that has been present over a long time and damaged your body.

For more information

• on the physical effects of stress
• to return to personal stress management for you