We all have painful physical symptoms or unsettling emotional responses in our bodies throughout our lives. They usually improve on their own and do not require treatment. We typically consult a doctor if they do not. Even after blood tests, x-rays, and scans, a physical cause is not always found. Symptoms like these are referred to as "medically unexplained symptoms" because they are not caused by a physical illness. Our thoughts, feelings, and stresses all contribute to the changes that take place in our bodies every day. For instance, we blush when we are embarrassed. Feeling worried or frightened can result in the unpleasant sensation of "butterflies in the stomach." When we are upset, our throat tightens as if we have "a lump in the throat." Feeling down or stressed exacerbates any pain we are experiencing.
Over thousands of years, we have evolved a way of responding to stress that prepares our bodies for physical activity. If a caveman (or woman) was attacked by a tiger, they needed to fight or flee. This is referred to as the "fight or flight response" at times. Even though we do not have to physically react to most of these stresses, we still have many nowadays. For example, when we are worried about money, jobs, or relationships, we may experience acute stress. We may even experience our usual stressors if we must take an exam, give a presentation to co-workers, or be somewhere quickly when stuck in a traffic jam. Physical symptoms of stress can be highly unpleasant, especially if we do not understand why they occur.
GUT
When we are nervous, anxious, or stressed, our stomachs knot up. According to Harvard Medical School researchers, stomach discomfort such as cramps, bloating, and nausea may indicate poor mental health. Doctors and scientists sometimes refer to the gut as the "second brain" because they have discovered a link between gut health and mental well-being. Stress can damage the gut lining, allowing toxins to pass through and feeding harmful bacteria rather than good bacteria. The stress hormone glucocorticoid increases appetite, and cortisol can cause us to crave sugary or fatty foods. Weight changes that are drastic or concerning, whether weight loss or weight gain, can indicate a mental health issue.
Neck and Shoulders
Tension in the neck or shoulders is one of the most common signs of stress. The muscles between the shoulders and the forehead are sometimes referred to as the "tension triangle" because they are the most sensitive to emotional stress. When we are stressed, we frequently hold that tension by raising our shoulders or clenching our jaws without even realising it. We may experience tightness and stiffness in our upper back and neck. We may suffer from tension headaches caused by muscle tension in the area.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common side effect of depression. We all have low energy levels from time to time and may feel sluggish in the morning, wishing we could stay in bed and watch TV instead of going to work. However, unlike normal fatigue, depression-related fatigue can cause concentration problems, irritability, and apathy. Depressed people frequently have a nonrestorative sleep, which means they feel sluggish even after a whole night's rest. Symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and anhedonia (lack of pleasure in day-to-day activities) may also be present when experiencing fatigue.
Inflammation
Chronic stress is a significant cause of inflammation. In simple terms, inflammation is the process by which our bodies heal injuries and serve as a defence against toxins. However, when inflammation persists, as it often does because of chronic stress, it can begin attacking the body. When dealing with allergies, cystic acne, or other signs of inflammation in the body, it is crucial to consider the role stress may play.
If stress, sadness, or anxiety are causing physical problems, suppressing these emotions can make us feel even worse. When something bothers us, we should tell our loved ones. However, keep in mind that our family and friends may not always assist us inappropriately dealing with our feelings. Seek advice and support from your family doctor, a counsellor, or a therapist.
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