Experiencing stress is natural and inevitable. As you go about your daily activities, you are bound to encounter situations or circumstances that can cause anxiety and leave you stressed. Whether it is a deadline at work or the medical issues of your loved one, it is vital to identify the early signs of stress so you can find ways to handle them. If left unchecked, it can show up in aches and strains, leading to further damage to your health. Here are four physical signs and how to cope.
- Sleep problems
Poor sleep quality is usually the first telltale sign of stress. Hormones like cortisol are released into the body, and they can cause many sleeping problems that can adversely affect your health. For instance, you may experience digestive issues like diarrhea, muscle tension, and more stress. Finding a nighttime routine that reduces stress and calms you down for a good night’s sleep is important to escape this vicious cycle. Try to eliminate stimulants like coffee and alcohol before bed, as they are known to disrupt sleep. Instead, drink herbal teas like chamomile tea. Staying off your digital devices can also be beneficial. Training your mind to prepare for sleep by switching your phone or laptop off is more helpful than scrolling through your socials and keeping your mind alert.
- Teeth grinding
Grinding your teeth when you are nervous or bored can be an occasional thing. When it becomes frequent, it can be a sign of stress. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause teeth fractures, sore jaws, and, in some cases, loose teeth. If you find yourself grinding your teeth multiple times a day or have had someone tell you that you do this in your sleep, it might be time to talk to a dentist. A dental professional will examine your teeth, recommend solutions, and provide tools to help you stop the habit of grinding or clenching. You can also try some home remedies, like applying a warm cloth or compress to the sides of your cheeks to relax your jaws or muscle stretch exercises.
- Indigestion
When you are anxious, it is common to face gastrointestinal issues like cramps, constipation, or peptic ulcers. These uncomfortable symptoms, when prolonged, can cause long-term effects. Consider visiting your local pharmacist or doctor for a check-up if you have been experiencing acute stomach pains. You can also adopt coping mechanisms like deep breathing or yoga. Also, exercise is known to reduce tightened muscles and cut down the pressure on your abdomen. Your diet is also another important factor to consider. Do your best to avoid fatty and spicy food, citrus fruits, and the like.
- Headaches
You have probably had a steady throbbing pain on both sides of your head at least once. These types of tension headaches can last for several minutes or days. Sometimes, you can go on with your tasks without affecting your day. Other times, they can be severe, accompanied by confusion, a stiff neck, and impaired vision. Consider relaxation techniques that ease off your habit of overthinking. Keeping a journal or going for nature walks can help you face stressful situations and improve your health. You can also request support from a mental health professional or your loved ones.
Paying attention and listening to your body is crucial. The aftermath of stress can be life-threatening. By recognizing these physical signs on time, you can put measures in place to ensure you remain healthy and manage stress in the best way possible.
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