Symptoms of extreme stress can manifest in both physical and psychological ways. The most common physical symptoms include headaches, chest pain, racing heart, upset stomach, difficulty breathing, and sweating. Psychological symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, worry, depression, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, people may also experience flashbacks or nightmares related to a traumatic event.
Diffculty breathing
When you experience stress, your body responds by releasing hormones that prepare you to either fight or take flight. This is known as the fight-or-flight response.
Your heart rate and blood pressure increase, sending more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. Your breathing quickens to supply this increased demand for oxygen. At the same time, your brain uses more glucose and oxygen.
Your pupils dilate, allowing in more light so that you can better assess threats. Your hearing becomes more sensitive, and you might become hyper vigilant to potential dangers around you.
Your immune system suppresses nonessential functions, such as growth and reproduction, so that it can better focus on responding to the threat at hand. This is why people who are stressed are more susceptible to colds and other illnesses.
Panic attacks
People who experience panic attacks often feel as though they are in danger or are about to die. This can make them feel very scared and anxious. Panic attacks can last for a few minutes or longer, and they usually peak within 10 minutes.
After a panic attack has subsided, many people feel drained and exhausted. They may also have trouble concentrating or sleeping. Panic attacks can be very frightening, but they are not harmful physically.
Blurred eyesight or sore eyes
If you find yourself having trouble focusing your eyes or noticing that your eyes feel especially sore, it could be a sign that you’re under extreme stress. When we’re stressed, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and decreased blood flow to the eyes. This can cause blurred vision or make existing eye problems worse. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor to rule out any other potential causes.
Sleep problems
It’s 3 a.m. and you’re wide awake. Again. You’ve been trying to fall asleep for hours, but your mind won’t stop racing and your body feels like it’s wired with electricity. You’re exhausted, but sleep seems impossible. Sound familiar?
If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep problems, you’re not alone. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 30 percent of adults in the United States report occasional insomnia, and 10 percent have chronic insomnia (defined as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at least three nights per week for three months or longer).
While occasional sleeplessness is normal and usually isn’t cause for concern, chronic sleep problems can take a toll on your health, productivity, mood, and quality of life. If you’re regularly having trouble sleeping, it’s important to talk to your doctor about possible causes and treatment options.
There are many different factors that can contribute to sleep problems. In some cases, an underlying medical condition is responsible (such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, thyroid disease). Other times psychological issues like stress or anxiety may be to blame. Poor sleep habits (like drinking caffeine before bed or watching television in bed) can also keep you from getting the restful night’s sleep your body needs to function at its best during the day..
Fatigue
In addition to feeling exhausted, you may also find that you have trouble sleeping or that you wake up feeling unrested. Stress can interfere with your normal sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
If stress is impacting your ability to get a good night’s rest, you may find yourself turning to caffeine or other stimulants to try to keep yourself going during the day. This can further disrupt your sleep patterns and create a vicious cycle of fatigue and insomnia.
Muscle aches and headaches
Muscle aches and headaches are two of the most common signs of stress. When we are stressed, our muscles tense up and can cause pain. Headaches are also caused by muscle tension and can be very debilitating. If you are experiencing muscle aches and headaches, it is important to seek medical help to rule out any other potential causes.
Chest pains and high blood pressure
If you are experiencing chest pains and high blood pressure, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as these could be signs of extreme stress. Chest pains can be caused by a number of things, including heart disease, panic attacks, and indigestion. High blood pressure can also be caused by stress, as well as other factors such as obesity and smoking. If you are suffering from either of these conditions, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any serious underlying health problems.
Indigestion or heartburn
Indigestion, also called heartburn or acid reflux, is a burning sensation in the esophagus, just behind the breastbone. It often occurs after eating a heavy meal or drinking coffee or alcohol. Indigestion is not usually a sign of a serious medical condition, but it can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage. There are several things you can do to relieve symptoms:
-Avoid trigger foods and beverages. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
-Eat smaller meals more often throughout the day instead of three large meals.
-Chew food slowly and thoroughly before swallowing.
-Avoid lying down immediately after eating. Wait at least three hours before going to bed. Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches with blocks or books under the legs of your bed frame. Or use a wedge-shaped pillow under your mattress to elevate your head and chest while you sleep on your back or side. Do not use extra pillows because this can actually make symptoms worse by putting pressure on your stomach area and making it harder for food and acid to move up into your esophagus. Also avoid wearing tight clothing that puts pressure on your stomach area (such as belts).