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Stress and Your Body: What Headaches and Indigestion Really Mean

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While stress is often considered a silent enemy in our daily lives, it can contribute to physical changes that impair the way our body functions. Dr. Danielle Martin breaks down some ways our bodies react negatively to stress.

 

Head

Sign of stress: Insomnia
We all know that when we're stressed and worrying, we can experience sleeplessness. You may find yourself awake at night which is a common reaction to stress. You could also find it difficult to fall or stay asleep, which can be compounded by common lifestyle habits like drinking caffeine or not getting enough exercise, which only makes it worse.

Heart

Sign of stress: Chest pains
Also associated with anxiety and panic are palpitations in the chest which is a common symptom. Its also what we call the “fight or flight” reactions under pressure. 

Stomach

Sign of stress: Indigestion
Many people find that being constantly stressed aggravates their acid reflux. Solution: Watch your dietary triggers like eating less acidic foods or eating large meals late at night.

Skin

Sign of stress: Acne
Almost any skin condition can worsen under emotional stress and some of that is because of what your hormones produces under stress. When we’re stressed out we often compensate by skimping on self-care -- our diet and health regimens start to slip -- which shows through our skin.

Legs

Sign of stress: Inactivity
A clear sign of unproductive stress is when we stop doing things we enjoy, such as exercise, social interaction, connecting with loved ones, and reading. Solution: If you’re able to pull yourself out of your rut, exercise is extremely effective in battling stress.

Read More:
3 Stress-Busting Exercises
5 Tips to Help You Stay Sane Through the Holidays
Natural Anxiety Remedies

 

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