People come to see me mostly because they start out in pain and then figure out that health is connected to their nervous system and lifestyle choices. Most of the time, patient understand how falling, tripping, sleeping wrong or any other type of physical stress can effect them but in a lot of cases, they are not connected to how emotional stress can play a part in their health.
It has been shown over the years that there are numerous emotional and physical disorders that have been linked to stress. Some of the most common health issues are because of increased emotional stress in our lives. Depression, anxiety, heart attacks, stroke, hypertension as well as immune system disturbances that increase susceptibility to infections. The common cold, herpes, AIDS and certain cancers, as well as autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis can be linked with emotional stress.
We have all heard stories of friends or loved ones who have "broken out" with a rash because of stress or have had skin outbreakes like rashes, hives or atopic dermatitis. Stress can contribute and exacerbate the gastrointestinal system (GERD, peptic ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease). Sleeping patterns can be disrupted leading to insomnia. Degenerative neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease have been shown to be linked to emotional stress. In almost all health issues, emotional stress can be a huge factor.
Here is a diagram of areas effected by stress and 50 common signs and symptoms:
Here is another list of issues that are caused by stress:
1. Frequent headaches, jaw clenching or pain (TMJ)
2. Gritting, grinding teeth (also can lead to TMJ)
3. Stuttering or stammering
4. Tremors, trembling of lips, hands
5. Neck ache, back pain, muscle spasms
6. Light headedness, faintness, dizziness
7. Ringing, buzzing or “popping" sounds in ears
8. Frequent blushing, sweating...feeling hot
9. Cold or sweaty hands, feet
10. Dry mouth, problems swallowing
11. Frequent colds, infections, herpes sores
12. Rashes, itching, hives, “goose bumps”
13. Unexplained or frequent “allergy” attacks
14. Heartburn, stomach pain, nausea
15. Excess belching, flatulence
16. Constipation, diarrhea, loss of control of systems
17. Difficulty breathing, frequent sighing. Feeling like you don't get enough air
18. Sudden attacks of life threatening panic
19. Chest pain, palpitations, rapid pulse
20. Frequent urination
21. Diminished sexual desire or performance
22. Excess anxiety, worry, guilt, nervousness
23. Increased anger, frustration, hostility
24. Depression, frequent or wild mood swings
25. Increased or decreased appetite
26. Insomnia, nightmares, disturbing dreams
27. Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts
28. Trouble learning new information - (it is hard to concentrate if you are upset or stressed)
29. Forgetfulness, disorganization, confusion
30. Difficulty in making decisions
31. Feeling overloaded or overwhelmed
32. Frequent crying spells or suicidal thoughts
33. Feelings of loneliness or worthlessness
34. Little interest in appearance or punctuality
35. Nervous habits, fidgeting, feet tapping
36. Increased frustration, irritability, edginess
37. Overreaction to petty things in life - becoming annoyed
38. Increased number of minor accidents
39. Obsessive or compulsive behavior
40. Reduced work efficiency or productivity
41. Lies or excuses to cover up poor work
42. Rapid or mumbled speech
43. Excessive defensiveness or suspiciousness
44. Problems in communication or sharing information
45. Social withdrawal and isolation
46. Constant tiredness, weakness, fatigue
47. Frequent use of over-the-counter drugs
48. Weight gain or loss without diet
49. Increased smoking, alcohol or drug use
50. Excessive gambling or impulse buying
I am sure we have all experienced at least one of these symptoms in our life and if you think about it, we were pretty stressed. FYI: Chiropractic care decreases stress that has accumulated in the body and is effecting your systems. If you are experiencing anything above and want to be healthier and function as efficiently as possible, give us a call. We are here to help you with your health and wellness goals.
References: https://www.stress.org/stress-effects/